My name is Samantha, but you can call me Sammie. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapy Associate in the state of Washington. I have a master’s degree of arts in Marriage and Family Therapy from Antioch University, and a bachelor’s degree of arts in vocal performance. I have a certification in Trauma Therapy from Antioch University as well. I am bisexual, my pronouns are she/her, and I am very knowledgeable in topics such as complex PTSD, codependency, neurodivergence, sex, and polyamory/ethical nonmonogamy.
My Theoretical Approach
My style is quite direct. I believe we all need to be challenged to view ourselves without bias. Once I’ve gotten to know you, I’ll find gentle ways to challenge you to get you moving towards your goals.
I believe that you already possess everything you need to create the life you want. Therapy is the process of uncovering those wonderful parts of you that have been cut off by cultural norms and expectations, difficult childhood experiences, and trauma.
I want my clients to feel safe to be vulnerable with me. If you want to know something about me, ask and I will tell you. We will likely laugh a lot. I don’t come across as clinical or stuffy, even when I try. I view therapy as a relationship; I’m going to be myself and I hope you’ll do the same. If that’s hard, I’ll help you.
I have an eclectic approach to psychotherapy. I borrow various tools and strategies from many different modalities. I typically use Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). I work with an attachment lens, meaning I view most problems as attachment problems. Attachment theory is the idea that our first relationship with our primary caregiver shapes our attachment style, and how we are in relationship with others.
Internal Family Systems (IFS) was created by Richard Schwarz, and it borrows from many tried and true therapeutic modalities. It is an effective way to get to the core of the problem quickly and gently. It revolves around the idea that we all have different parts, and they all have different needs and expectations. If you’ve seen the movie, Inside Out, it’s kind of like that. IFS can help you to parent your inner child (or children) in order to live with agency and autonomy. IFS borrows techniques from somatic experiencing, hypnotherapy, and EFT.
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) was created by Sue Johnson. It’s just what it sounds like: the therapy focuses on primary and secondary emotions. Primary emotions are the gut reactions that happen quickly in response to something. Many people don’t notice primary emotions, they notice secondary emotions. Secondary emotions are reactions to the primary emotion, like anger after initial hurt. EFT is a beautiful therapy for those of us who have trouble naming emotions, avoid difficult feelings, and dread vulnerability.
At the end of the day, you know more than I do. You’re the one experiencing your life, not me. I have a large amount of knowledge and experience, but not your experience. You’re the expert on your life, not me. But that also means that you are the one that is doing the work, and I’m only here to guide you. I believe in radical agency: the action you take is foundational to this work. Expect intensive work in the therapy session, and reasonable homework outside of session.
About Me
I’ve always loved one on one connections with people. Before I became a therapist, I was an esthetician and sugarist. I spent my work day waxing people and chatting. It taught me a lot about helping people to be comfortable in uncomfortable situations.
I’ve been performing in one way or another since middle school. I used to perform opera locally, and now sing in a band.
I love to create. I regularly go through phases of learning a new skill, like knitting, acrylic painting, watercolor painting, and other things that aren’t necessarily considered ‘art,’ like learning how to do nail extensions on myself.
I love it when my client’s pets show up in telehealth sessions.
I think therapy is magic.
Services
Individual Therapy
Increase authenticity and confidence. Reduce codependency and create lasting, secure relationships. Heal from childhood physical, sexual, and emotional abuse. I work with adults 18+.
Couples+ Therapy
Improve communication and strengthen your bond. Create the relationship that you desire. Navigate relationship transitions.
Family Therapy
Resolve conflicts and address generational trauma. Heal attachment wounds and strengthen bonds. Create and maintain healthy boundaries. I work with adults 18+.
I have made a list of books that I recommend to my clients. You can find that here:
If you are an established client, here’s the portal:
Fees and Policies
Individual sessions: $150
Couples/family sessions: $175
Non-scheduled therapeutic interactions: $25
I do not take insurance at this time.
Reduced-fee slots are currently full.
Payment
Payment will be taken at the time of service. Credit card will need to be provided before scheduling the initial intake session.
I require 24 hours notice of cancellation before session. No shows are non-refundable.
Contact Me
If you’re interested in working with me, please contact me one of the following ways:
PREFERRED CONTACT: Sammie@GorhamTherapySeattle.com
Phone: (425) 686-9670
I typically respond to emails, texts, and calls between 24-48 hours. Urgent messages, I will respond as soon as possible.
Dial 911 for life-threatening emergencies
Dial 988 for crisis
Business Hours
Monday through Thursday, 11am to 7pm. Hours may vary.
