Sam Colby, LCSW — Therapist in California

Hi there, I'm Sam!

I'm passionate about helping people through life's challenges and transitions. I'm a natural listener with broad experience. I'm gentle, perceptive, empathetic, and supportive, and I use these strengths to help uplift you and support you in being your best self through our work together.

My focus

As a trans and LGBTQ person myself, I'm particularly passionate about working within the LGBTQIA+ community. I'm especially comfortable working with people experiencing anxiety, depression, and the effects of trauma, or anyone wanting support navigating life transitions or simply looking for support with living their best lives.

My approach

I use an eclectic approach, drawing from strengths-based and Rogerian philosophy. I help you imagine your life without problems and problem-solve using your strengths while building skills to reduce barriers. I have a strong social justice orientation and consider the effects of societal systems and individual identities on our work.

My communication style

I create a warm, friendly environment, always meeting you where you are. I strive to provide a safe container in which you'll feel supported in expressing and processing any aspects of your reality. I attune strongly with people and have been told all my life that I have a calming influence.

My journey to mental healthcare

I have always had an ability to listen fully and empathize with anyone. I'm natural at seeing others' perspectives and asking questions that guide and deepen understanding. I believe we all are tasked with using our natural strengths to improve the world, and for me, being a therapist is the way to accomplish this.

My goals for you

I have no agenda beyond what you want for yourself. If you come in knowing things are not as you'd like, we'll explore your life and problems, as well as past or imagined times without those problems. Together, we'll articulate what you'd like your life to look like and the achievable steps to get there.

Our first session

I'll ask questions about what brings you to therapy now and what you've been noticing about yourself. I'll assess for strengths and support, and ask you about your ideal version of life and self. I'll help guide you to articulate goals for your time in therapy. I'll encourage you to feel safe and confident in providing feedback throughout our time.

I identify as...

Male, Non-binary, Trans
Caucasian or White
Agnostic

Expertise

Treatment approaches

Brainspotting

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

Motivational Interviewing

Solution Focused Brief (SFBT)

+ 8 more

Focus populations

Gay

LGBTQIA+

Non-Binary

Queer

Transgender

+ 5 more

Therapy types

Individual Therapy

Ages served

Adults

Practice

Accepted insurance providers

Aetna
All Savers
Allegiance
Allied
Anthem

+ 56 more

Languages spoken

English

Education

Master of Social Work (MSW) from Portland State University.

Sessions

60 minutes

Virtual sessions

Sam Colby