LCSW, 3 years of experience
New to Grow
Hi! My name is Samantha Wills but most folks call me Sam! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I received my Bachelor’s of Social Work degree from Florida Gulf Coast University and later earned my Master’s of Social Work degree from Florida State University. Before beginning my work in private practice, I worked in different mental health school settings and an intensive outpatient program. I also identify and work with members of the LGBTQ+ community and pride myself on creating a safe, affirming environment for everyone to be vulnerable and honest without fear of rejection. I spend my free time reading the latest romantasy novel, spending time with my loved ones, and crafting.
During our first session, I will ask you a series of questions to get a strong understanding of how you are feeling and why you are seeking therapy. You should expect me to not just go through a script, but to want to truly get to know you as person, not just a series of symptoms or a diagnosis. You should expect to also get the opportunity to ask me any questions or share any concerns that you have regarding the process during the first visit. We will go over each other's expectations for the therapeutic process and set goals for your future self.
Some of my greatest strengths as a therapist include my ability to give everyone an individualized experience. While all of my approaches are evidence-based, I make an effort to learn what works best for my client so that the support that they are receiving is tailored to their needs as a person. I am direct when speaking to my clients, but always from a place of kindness and compassion.
Therapy can be a highly rewarding experience, but can be intimidating as well. My goal as your therapist is to welcome you, challenge you, and encourage you. I want for every client to feel safe and supported while in my care. It is my responsibility meet each client where they are so that I can better support their growth and ensure that their pathway is one filled with self-compassion and empowerment. My only expectations of my future clients is that they come in with an open mind and a willingness to self-reflect. I have worked with a wide age range starting with adolescence into late adulthood. I love to help people that are struggling with self-esteem issues, anxiety, chronic illness, disabilities, mood disorders, personality disorders, domestic violence, self-harm, and complicated family dynamics.
In my private practice, I use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help clients build practical skills for distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and mindful self-awareness. Together, we explore triggers and emotional responses, teaching clients to pause, observe, and reflect before reacting. This approach supports clients in identifying and naming their emotions, understanding the needs behind them, and developing healthier coping strategies. By practicing DBT skills in session and between appointments, clients gain confidence in managing intense emotions and navigating challenging situations. Over time, this process fosters greater resilience, self-compassion, and clarity about one’s thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
In my private practice, I use Motivational Interviewing (MI) to help clients explore their own motivations and readiness for change in a non-judgmental, collaborative way. Together, we identify ambivalence, values, and goals, allowing clients to clarify what truly matters to them. Through reflective listening and open-ended questions, I guide clients in recognizing discrepancies between their current behaviors and desired outcomes. This process strengthens self-efficacy and empowers clients to develop their own plans for meaningful change. Over time, MI helps clients build confidence, resolve barriers, and take actionable steps toward the life they envision.
In my private practice, I use Relational Therapy to help clients understand how their relationships—past and present—shape their emotional experiences and sense of self. Together, we explore patterns of connection, trust, and boundaries, bringing greater awareness to how these dynamics influence current challenges. By using the therapeutic relationship as a safe and supportive space, clients can experience new ways of relating and being understood. This process fosters self-reflection, compassion, and healthier interpersonal skills. Over time, clients build stronger, more authentic connections both with themselves and others.
In my private practice, I use a strengths-based approach to help clients identify and build upon the personal resources, values, and abilities they already possess. Together, we explore past successes and existing supports, reframing challenges as opportunities for growth. This process empowers clients to draw on their inner resilience and self-knowledge when navigating difficulties. By focusing on strengths rather than deficits, clients develop increased confidence and a clearer sense of direction. Over time, this approach cultivates hope, self-efficacy, and sustainable positive change.
In my private practice, I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients recognize and shift unhelpful thought patterns that drive unwanted emotions and behaviors. Together, we examine the connections between thoughts, feelings, and actions, developing practical strategies for change. This structured, collaborative process supports clients in challenging cognitive distortions, practicing new coping skills, and testing out healthier behaviors. As clients gain insight and tools, they experience reduced distress and greater emotional regulation. Over time, CBT fosters resilience, problem-solving skills, and lasting improvements in mood and functioning.