Professional Highlights:
I earned a Bachelors in Psychology from the University of Utah in 2015 and a Masters in Education Psychology from Utah State University in 2017. I worked as a licensed school counselor before starting a PhD in Counseling Psychology at BYU. I am currently in the 3rd year of my doctoral program. Past experience includes work as a university counseling center therapist with both individuals and groups, adjunct teaching, and clinical work at the Veterans Healthcare Administration. I am supervised by Dr. Louise Wheeler, Licensed Psychologist, and by Dr. Marty Erickson, PhD, LMFT.
Specialties:
I work with individuals with a focus on an affirming approach to therapy, aiming to foster a safe space for connection, empowerment, and growth. I believe in meeting people where they are and honoring their experiences, strengths, and the story they come to the therapy room with.
I enjoy working with people struggling with life transitions, faith crises or religious/faith challenges, identity development, impacts of societal oppression and social constructs, eating disorders & eating disordered behavior and body image issues, sexual concerns, problematic or out of control sexual behavior, LGBTQ+ affirmative work, depression and anxiety, and issues related to relationships.
I utilize an integrated approach drawing from Feminist Therapy, Multicultural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Humanistic Therapy, and mindfulness-based work. I provide therapy that emphasizes collaboration and affirmation of the diverse identities and backgrounds people bring, encompassing factors such as race, ethnicity, social history, sexual and gender identity, trauma, and religious/spiritual backgrounds and values.
Sam has limited in-person and teletherapy openings now to see people in-person in Orem or anyone in Utah by teletherapy