Rate Samuel Baker

Hi, there! My name is Sam and I'm honored to potentially be your therapist. Within this bio you'll learn about my background, my approach, my scope of practice, and what you can expect from therapy with me. It's my intention to be as transparent as possible in order for you to make a fully informed decision whether I'm the right clinician for you.

I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I received my Masters degree from the University of Southern Indiana in 2015, and I carried out my clinical training in Atlanta, GA. I've been independently licensed since August 2020, and I'm credentialed to work in Texas, Georgia and Indiana.

I provide Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), which is a short-term, goal-directed approach. It’s based on the belief that you already have the strengths and resources you need to make changes in your life. My role is to ask targeted questions that help you identify and move toward your desired outcomes. If I do my job well, you will leave our sessions feeling noticeably hopeful and more capable of overcoming whatever challenges you are presented with.

While I bring training and clinical tools to our work, I cannot replicate your biology or personal experiences; therefore, I feel it would be inappropriate for me to "teach" you things or instruct you on how you should behave. Having said that, it is important to note the following:

• You are the expert of your own life. I do not provide advice or direct suggestions.

• I do not offer formal diagnostic evaluations.

• I do not complete forms or write letters on your behalf (e.g., for emotional support animals, work/school accommodations, legal matters).

• My job is not to solve your problems for you but to speak with you in a way that helps you feel more capable of managing life’s challenges.

• I focus on fostering positive change, whatever that may look like for you.

Initially we will work together to establish direction, also known as a desired outcome or "best hopes." Following this, we will collaborate to build extremely detailed descriptions of your life relative to your desired outcome. Solution Focused Brief Therapy works by helping you identify what’s already working, clarify your goals, and take manageable steps forward. I’ll be listening closely for signs of your strengths and progress, and I’ll ask questions that help you envision the future you want. Solution focused brief therapy is often more focused on what’s going well and what’s possible, rather than analyzing problems in depth.

Ideally, my clients will notice several unique qualities that set me apart as a psychotherapist. I realize that establishing good rapport is critical to the therapeutic process, and I pride myself on being down-to-earth and communicating with clients like a human being (not a robot). Additionally, I hope that the manner in which I carefully and intentionally develop meaningful questions reflects an attention to detail; this is something I try to demonstrate in all aspects of life, not just therapy. Furthermore, I hope it's noticeable that I strive to be very good at what I do, and this is demonstrated through my effort and enthusiasm.

Keep in mind there are countless 'styles' as it relates to therapy. If, for whatever reason, I don't meet your expectations, please know you may change therapists at any point with absolutely no repercussions.

**Please note that a telehealth platform (e.g., BetterHelp) is not appropriate for individuals who are currently experiencing acute suicidal ideations or acute homicidal ideations. If you are in crisis and need to speak with a professional immediately, please contact Emergency Medical Services (EMS) at 911, the National Crisis Hotline at 988, or visit the nearest emergency room. Additionally, I take confidentiality seriously. I don't share information about you with third parties and don't complete forms or provide documentation on your behalf, unless legally required to do so (e.g., in cases of suspected abuse or imminent harm).