Family therapy and counseling in Syracuse, NY

Starting therapy requires courage and strength even when we are in pain or dissatisfied with the way things are. It is difficult to open up to a stranger, to change the familiar ways of dealing with life and people. That is why I believe in providing a safe, nonjudgmental environment, where we will look at recurrent patterns in your life (for example why do you choose "the same type" of partners or feel so lonely or anxious, why do you often have the "same conflicts" with your bosses or friends) and gain insight into unconscious motivations of your behavior.

I specialize in behavioral excess (misuse of substances, sex and food) and mood disorders (anxiety, depression). Because of my belief in personal freedom I try to provide accepting and safe environment where we can talk about you and your life openly.

I am bilingual (Russian/English)and have extensive training in psycholinguistics.

Clients often describe me as warm, thoughtful, and direct. I aim to create a space where you feel understood and supported, while also gently challenged to grow. I believe therapy should feel collaborative, not judgmental, not passive, and not surface-level.

Are you ready to make a change in your life? It takes courage to ask for help, but the rewards of doing so can lead to a lifetime of fulfillment. I understand and have experienced the emotional challenges life has to offer. In working together, we will cultivate growth by understanding the obstacles that you face and develop solutions that can help you gain control of your life and achieve your goals.

I know well that starting therapy can feel formidable and thoroughly overwhelming, and on occasion, the absolute hardest step of all is merely beginning. In spite of that, you are here, and you are actively setting out on your personal journey to heal and reconstruct. I warmly invite the opportunity to communicate with you and learn how I might best help you. My professional style is kind, deeply empathetic, and shared.

Hi! My name is Samantha and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I believe that seeking support is one of the strongest and bravest things a person can do. Navigating all of life's ups and downs can feel scary and isolating. Whether is it day to day anxieties, relationship challenges, life transitions or just feeling stuck. I want to help you through your journey so you will not go through it alone.

I earned both my Bachelor of Social Work and Master of Social Work Degrees from Adelphi University in Garden City, New York. I am licensed in the state of New York. I am a dedicated professional with a passion for working with individuals, couples, and families.

I am a licensed therapist with experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families in both school-based and clinical settings. I specialize in working across all age groups and take pride in my ability to meet clients where they are, developmentally and emotionally.

My background has allowed me to support individuals through a wide range of challenges, including grief, depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, and major life transitions. I have particular strength in building genuine, trusting relationships, helping people feel comfortable, understood, and supported as they navigate the challenges.

I also work closely with adults who are navigating different phases of life, whether that involves processing loss, managing stress, or working through relationship difficulties.

My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), while remaining flexible to meet each client’s unique needs. I strive to create a space where clients feel safe to be themselves, explore their experiences, and develop the tools needed to create meaningful and lasting change.

I am a licensed mental health counselor in New York state. I completed her master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling at Molloy College. I have over 13 years of experience working in the field of human services and mental health. I have worked closely with adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities. I am known for my resilient spirit and ability to provide unconditional positive regard.

I am the Founder of EQ Therapy (eqtherapy.co), a private practice designed for high-performing clients. I also teach at NYU in their graduate mental health counseling program. My dissertation at Johns Hopkins focused on the mental health experience of intercollegiate student-athletes. I supervise therapists at EQ Therapy who are accepting new clients for individual and couples therapy. If you're a couple, college student, industry leader, entrepreneur, or athlete, schedule a session with with me today!