In this episode, Samantha Willis shares with us about the painful experiences that our LGBTQ youth often go through alone. She stressed the importance of acceptance and compassion.

She mentions the benefits of displaying symbols, such as a rainbow, that communicate a message that she is a safe person to authentically share with.

She recommends that therapists connect with other therapists in their area to maximize benefits for clients in search of a therapist that can support their unique needs.

Samantha earned a Master's of Education in Counseling and Guidance with a concentration in Clinical Mental Health from the University of Montevallo. She also earned Bachelor's Degrees in Psychology and Social Work with a Minor in Philosophy and Religion from the University of Montevallo. Samantha is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Alabama, a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC), and Registered Play Therapist. Samantha has a certification in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). She utilizes peer-reviewed and evidence-based therapeutic techniques in her practice such as play therapy, sand tray therapy, and art therapy. Samantha is a Body-Brain sand tray specialist and uses the techniques with all ages.

Samantha works primarily with clients who have experienced trauma, experience dissociative symptoms, are in the LGBTQ+ community, or are transgender. Samantha is currently a student at Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN) studying Gender Studies and is currently writing her thesis entitled "Transgender and Non-Binary Lived Experiences Among Southern Appalachian Youth: Correlations of Mental Health and Interpersonal Relationship Dynamics Before, During, and After the Coming out Process."

Samantha Willis, M.Ed., LPC, NCC, Registered Play Therapist

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