Erin Samples, LMSW

Therapist

Starting therapy can feel like a big step, especially when you're already managing the pressures of school, relationships, and figuring out who you are becoming. My goal is to create a space where you can slow down, talk openly, and feel supported while you work through what’s on your mind.

Through Amira the Healing Space, I provide counseling services to SUNY Oneonta students who are navigating the challenges that often come with the college years. I work with students and young adults who may be feeling overwhelmed, dealing with anxiety or depression, managing stress, or trying to understand difficult experiences while balancing academic and personal responsibilities.

Students often seek support with:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Academic stress and burnout
• Anger management and emotional regulation
• Relationship and family challenges
• Substance use concerns and recovery
• Grief and loss
• Life transitions and identity development

I have experience supporting individuals who are adjusting to adulthood, managing family stress, navigating recovery, or coping with instability in their living or family situations.

I was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, where strong family values and a deep sense of community shaped my approach to helping others. I identify as African American and value creating a therapeutic space where students of all backgrounds feel respected, safe, and heard.

I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Forensic Psychology from John Jay College and my Master of Social Work from the Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College. I am also a CASAC-T (Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor Trainee) and am currently pursuing my CASAC certification, allowing me to support individuals and families navigating substance use and recovery.

With more than ten years of experience in the field, I have worked with individuals across many stages of life. My work has included supporting children, families, young adults, individuals in recovery, and those navigating housing instability, foster care involvement, and re-entry after incarceration.

My clinical approach is rooted in client-centered and strengths-based therapy. I often incorporate:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Motivational Interviewing
• Strength-based approaches

These methods help clients recognize patterns in thinking, build confidence, and develop practical strategies for coping with stress and emotional challenges.

Clients often describe me as supportive, compassionate, and easy to talk to. In therapy, I aim to create a steady and nonjudgmental space where you can explore your experiences and work toward building resilience, clarity, and confidence.

If you're feeling overwhelmed, navigating difficult decisions, or simply need a place to talk things through, therapy can offer support and perspective during this stage of life.

Schedule with me here: AmiraTheHealingSpace.as.me 

In my off time, I enjoy birds, nature and exploring.