LCSW, 5 years of experience
Hi, there! My name is Sam and I'm honored to potentially be your therapist. Within this bio you'll learn about my background, my approach, my scope of practice, and what you can expect from therapy with me. It's my intention to be as transparent as possible in order for you to make a fully informed decision whether I'm the right clinician for you. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I received my Masters degree from the University of Southern Indiana in 2015, and I carried out my clinical training in Atlanta, GA. I've been independently licensed since August 2020, and I'm credentialed to work in Texas, Georgia and Indiana. Regarding my theoretical orientation, I provide Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), which is a short-term, goal-directed approach. It’s based on the belief that you already have the strengths and resources you need to make changes in your life. My role is to ask targeted questions that help you identify and move toward your desired outcomes.
Initially, we will work together to establish a desired outcome or "best hopes." Following this, we will collaborate to build a description of your life relative to your desired outcome. Solution Focused Brief Therapy works by helping you identify what’s already working, clarify your goals, and take manageable steps forward. I’ll be listening closely for signs of your strengths and progress, and I’ll ask questions that help you envision the future you want. It’s often more focused on what’s going well and what’s possible, rather than analyzing problems in depth.
Ideally, my clients will notice several unique qualities that set me apart as a psychotherapist. I realize that establishing good rapport is critical to the therapeutic process, and I pride myself on being down-to-earth and communicating with you like a human being (not a robot). Additionally, I hope that the manner in which I carefully and intentionally develop meaningful questions reflects an attention to detail; this is something I strive to demonstrate in all aspects of life, not just therapy. Furthermore, I hope it's noticeable that I want to be very good at what I do, and this is demonstrated through my effort and enthusiasm. Rest assured, I will never "phone it in."
I work with adult individuals (age 18 & up) who are experiencing a variety of presenting obstacles. While I can technically work with clients experiencing any problem, I primarily work with individuals experiencing adjustment-related issues, such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress, relationship changes, or identity exploration. While I bring training and clinical tools to our work, I cannot replicate your biology or personal experiences; therefore, I feel it would be inappropriate for me to instruct you on how you should behave. Having said that, it is important to note the following: • You are the expert of your own life. I do not provide advice or direct suggestions. • I do not offer formal diagnostic evaluations. • I do not complete forms or write letters on your behalf (e.g., for emotional support animals, work/school accommodations, legal matters). • My job is not to solve your problems for you but to speak with you in a way that helps you feel more capable of managing life’s challenges. • I focus on fostering positive change, whatever that may look like for you. I offer therapy services via a secure telehealth platform; however, telehealth is not appropriate for individuals who are currently experiencing acute suicidal ideations or acute homicidal ideations. If you are in crisis and need to speak with a professional immediately, please contact Emergency Medical Services (EMS) at 911, the National Crisis Hotline at 988, or visit the nearest emergency room.
I have received extensive training and coaching as it relates to the Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) approach, and I believe whole-heartedly in it's effectiveness. My role as an SFBT therapist is to facilitate a meaningful conversation surrounding whatever positive transformation you wish you occur in your life. Together we will collaborate build detailed descriptions of your preferred future, resources, and history as it relates to your desired outcome. If I do my job correctly, you will leave our sessions feeling hopeful, inspired, and fully-capable of experiencing the life that you want.