Sam utilizes a trauma-informed, relational lens which continues to nourish their understanding of systemic change and individual healing. Sam is passionate about approaching wellness from an anti-oppressive lens and understanding the ways in which our lived experiences affect our access to care. Sam believes that intimacy, connection, and joy are central to liberation; and hopes to use their skills and lived experience to support folks in reclaiming their autonomy to live supported and embodied lives. 

Their therapeutic style is warm, collaborative, and client-centered. Sam approaches therapy through a balance of silliness and deep attunement. They have specific training in narrative exposure therapy, ecotherapy interventions, work with survivors of interpersonal violence, and work with folks navigating co-occurring substance use and mental health support needs. Sam’s work is informed by harm reduction, liberation psychology, and systems analysis. They pull from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), parts work, expressive arts, mindfulness, and somatic interventions. 

Experiences within Sam’s scope of practice include: 

• LGBTQ+ identity and experiences

• C-PTSD and PTSD 

• Systemic and institutional violence (religious trauma, systemic oppression, etc)

• Relationship dynamics (kink and poly/ENM affirming)

• Neurodiversity (ADHD, Autism, OCD, Bipolar I/II) 

• Chronic illness and chronic pain 

• Self harm and suicidality 

• Substance use 

As a registered Clinical Social Work Associate with the Oregon Board of Licensed Social Workers, Sam is under the supervision of Tori Lopez, LCSW, and Kaspar Woods, LCSW.