Dr. Samuels is a highly experienced mental health professional with over 22 years in the field and six years as a fully licensed LPC. He provides counseling services to children, adolescents, and adults, working at both the individual and family levels. He previously served as a senior-level probation officer in the Henry County, Georgia, Juvenile Court, where he worked closely with justice-involved youth and their families. His clinical expertise includes supporting individuals affected by domestic violence, relationship challenges, anxiety, grief and loss, and depression. Dr. Samuels has extensive crisis-level experience, having provided mental health services in acute and high-risk settings for six years. He has also delivered Intensive Family Intervention Services (IFIS) to children and adolescents for six years, and Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) services to adults with complex mental health needs for two years. Additionally, he has over two decades of experience working with children in the foster care system, helping youth navigate trauma, instability, and significant life disruptions. His approach emphasizes stability, emotional regulation, family engagement, and long-term functional improvement. Dr. Samuels earned a Ph.D. in Psychology and a Master of Science in Professional Counseling from Grand Canyon University, as well as a Master of Science in Public Administration from Georgia State University. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Armstrong Atlantic University. He is a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC), a Georgia Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor, and a certified Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) practitioner.
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
Your first session is an opportunity to get to know one another and begin building a strong therapeutic relationship. Dr. Samuels focuses on creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can openly share your experiences, concerns, and goals. During this session, you can expect: Introduction and Rapport Building – Dr. Samuels will take time to understand who you are, your background, and what brings you to counseling. Assessment of Needs – Together, you’ll explore your current challenges, strengths, and areas for growth. Discussion of Goals – You and Dr. Samuels will begin identifying realistic, meaningful goals for therapy. Explanation of Approach – He will explain his client-centered, eclectic therapeutic approach and how evidence-based strategies may be applied to meet your unique needs. Questions and Clarifications – You’ll have the chance to ask questions about the counseling process, confidentiality, and what to expect in future sessions. The first session is about understanding you as a whole person and laying the foundation for growth, healing, and long-term change.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
Dr. Terry Samuels is a compassionate and experienced mental health professional dedicated to helping clients grow, heal, and achieve balance in their lives. He takes an eclectic approach to therapy, using the modalities that work best for each individual and family. He is a certified Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) practitioner who integrates evidence-based strategies to help clients build emotional regulation, coping skills, and meaningful change. Dr. Samuels completed his Doctorate in Psychology in December 2023 and has authored three books: My Journey to Mental Health Defined by Character and Accountability: Breaking Down the Barriers to Helping People Achieve Sound Mental Health Dr. Samuels’ Blueprint to a Balanced Love Life He has over 22 years of experience in the mental health field, including six years as a fully licensed LPC. His work spans children, adolescents, and adults, as well as individuals involved with the foster care system, crisis-level counseling, and family interventions. He previously served as a senior-level probation officer in the Henry County, Georgia, Juvenile Court, working closely with justice-involved youth and their families. Dr. Samuels emphasizes establishing a strong therapeutic alliance, believing that rapport and trust are the foundation for effective counseling and lasting personal growth. He earned his Master of Science in Professional Counseling from Grand Canyon University, a Master of Science in Public Administration from Georgia State University, and a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Armstrong Atlantic University. He is a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) and a Georgia Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
Dr. Terry Samuels works with individuals and families who are seeking meaningful growth, healing, and balance in their lives. His ideal clients include: Children and Adolescents – Youth experiencing emotional, behavioral, or developmental challenges, including those involved in the foster care or juvenile justice systems. Adults – Individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship challenges, trauma, or life transitions. Families – Families seeking support for communication, conflict resolution, and strengthening connections. Individuals in Crisis or High-Risk Situations – Those who need immediate support or guidance in navigating complex emotional or life circumstances. Clients Interested in Personal Growth – People motivated to build resilience, emotional regulation skills, and long-term functional improvement. Those Open to Evidence-Based Therapy – Clients willing to explore a variety of therapeutic approaches, including DBT, tailored to their unique needs. Dr. Samuels thrives on supporting clients committed to self-discovery and willing to engage in a collaborative therapeutic process focused on growth, stability, and meaningful change.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
I am certified with DBT through Pesi.com. I am comfortable using mindfulness and distress tolerance.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I have been using CBT for over 18 years. This process is designed to eliminate illogical thoughts.