Sam Garza, LPC Associate
(She/They)
Currently under the clinical supervision of Joy Cannon, LPC-S, RPT-S™
3-8 Years | 9-12 Years | 13-18 Years | 18+ | Family
Sam is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate supervised by Joy Cannon, LPC-S, RPT-S™ and is currently working towards their Registered Play Therapist™ (RPT™) credential. Sam earned her Masters of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from University of Texas at Tyler (CACREP Accredited Program) and her Bachelors of Arts in Human Rights from Southern Methodist University. Sam has experience working with young children, adolescents, and families in school and community based settings.
Sam utilizes a client-centered and trauma-informed approach to provide a safe, non-judgemental environment for clients. They are committed to providing culturally affirming and inclusive care. They believe children intuitively have the tools and resilience to heal when given the space to openly explore their inner world and that it is incredibly important to collaborate with caregivers in order to help them understand their child’s inner world and needs. Authenticity, empathy, and playfulness are all key elements to creating this space for clients in the playroom.
Sam is deeply committed to supporting children, families, and adult clients in the counseling space, through advocacy, and in her communities. She is Covid-cautious and continues to wear masks when in public spaces as community care and safety are incredibly important to her. Originally from the DFW area, they are new to Austin and loving the city. In their free time, they love painting, starting (and hopefully finishing) creative projects, playing Pokemon Go, and playing with her cats, Pudding and Sailor.
SAM IS PARTICULARLY WELL-SUITED TO SUPPORT FAMILIES:
Who are interested in working with an LGBTGEQIAP+ affirming, culturally affirming, trauma-informed, anti-oppressive counselor
With children and teens experiencing difficulties with neurodivergence, anxiety, or depression through playful, creative, and developmentally attuned self-exploration.
Who are interested in healing with play therapy and creative arts
SAM WORKS AT OUR BERKMAN AND SPICEWOOD OFFICE LOCATIONS AND OFFERS VIRTUAL SESSIONS. ALL SESSIONS ARE 45 MINUTES UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED. HER RATES ARE THE FOLLOWING:
Individual Session $160
Initial Consult, Parent Consult $185
Family Session $210
AREAS OF SPECIALIZATION:
ADHD
Adoption
Anger Management
Anxiety
Autism
Behavioral Issues
Coping Skills
Depression
Developmental Disorders
Divorce
Emotional Disturbance
Grief
LGBTQI+
Neurodiveristy
Oppositional Defiance
Racial Identity
Parenting
Peer Relationships
Relationship Issues
School Issues
Self Esteem
Self-Harming
Stress
Trauma and PTSD
SAM’S FAVORITES:
Favorite board game: Phase 10 (not a board game, but my favorite game of all time!)
Favorite ice cream flavor: Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough
Favorite animal: Cats
Favorite children’s book: Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes
Favorite color: Purple
Favorite place in Austin: Casey’s Snowballs
Favorite holiday: Halloween
I feel happiest when: I'm laughing with my friends
If I had a superpower it would be: Super strength
Place I feel most safe/calm/comfortable: In my bed with my two cats