Grief counselors and therapists in Glen Allen, VA

I am a Deaf LCSW and Neuropsychotherapist (NPT-C) with nearly 20 years of experience dedicated to high-achieving individuals facing systemic pressure. My clinical work integrates Neuropsychotherapy and Executive Management principles to cultivate cognitive resilience and self-mastery. My foundation includes four advanced degrees, culminating in my doctoral research which focused on systemic complexity and inclusive leadership. I bring extensive experience as a former leader in state government, non-profit, and private sectors. This background allows me to treat vocational stress, anxiety, and burnout with humble competence and real-world relevance. I communicate effectively via voice, video, and American Sign Language (ASL). I am committed to creating affirming, psychologically safe, and accessible spaces for all individuals to thrive.

I am a licensed clinical social worker, and I've been working in mental health for the past decade. I specialize in trauma, grief, anger, and communication.

As a mom of three (specifically as a twin mom), I know how difficult and challenging life can be. This is why I strive to be meet clients wherever they are in their journey. Often times, we don't need or even want someone to tell us all the things to do, but instead want the support of someone walking with us through life's challenges.

I am a proud double duke of James Madison University. I received my BA in Psychology with a Minor in Family Studies. Then stayed to receive my M.A. and Ed.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. From there my counseling journey led me to complete my internship in a private practice clinic in Knoxville, TN as my husband finished his own education. Next, I worked with Youth Villages as an Intensive In Home Counselor. And most recently, worked as a Mental Health Outpatient Counselor with New River Valley Community Services (NRVCS) where I completed my VA residency and became an LPC.

In all of the clinical settings I have practiced, I have worked with a wide range of clients. The main population that I have served is children and adolescents. I am working to expand my knowledge and clinical expertise to also include more adults. My clinical trainings have included Play Therapy, CBT, TF-CBT, and EMDR.

I have more than 25 years of experience assessing and treating adolescents, adults, and families. While I appreciate numerous approaches, my patients have stated that I provide a melding of both direct and indirect styles. In other words, my standard of care is challenging and supportive. More often than not, you won’t leave a session wondering what’s next.

Please feel free to call me Sam. I'm originally from North Carolina and received my bachelor's degree in social work at Appalachian State. In 2022, I moved to Southwest Virginia and received my master's degree in social work from Radford University. Overall, I have 13 years of experience as a Social Worker in different capacities, including grief and loss, chronic illness, and burnout. My passion is working with adults and older adults navigating life changes.

I specialize in grief, relationships, parenting, and attachment, with special interest in non-death related losses. I hold a BGS from the University of West Florida, an MSW from the University of Alabama, and have completed extensive continuing education including the University of Vermont's End-of-Life doula program. I am a TBRI® Practitioner, WRAP® Facilitator, and am a Gottman Seven Principles Leader.