About Me
Meet Samer
Cultivate self-love, Enhance your relationships, and Access your best self.
There may have been a time…
when you felt good in your own skin, and self-doubt and anxiety weren’t part of your everyday experience—but those days feel like a distant memory. It's as if you've lost touch with the confident, vibrant person you once were, and now, the weight of uncertainty and insecurity overshadows your happiness, making it hard to embrace the life you truly desire.
Whether you're a gay man navigating the pressures of the queer community and struggling to find your confidence, an entrepreneur battling imposter syndrome and overwhelm, an entertainment professional seeking direction or considering a career shift, or a couple feeling lost and disconnected in your relationship, I can help.
With a unique blend of psychotherapy and coaching, I tailor my methods to meet each client's specific needs, guiding you toward greater self-awareness and personal growth. Together, we will explore the patterns that have shaped your experience, helping you identify your existing skills and maximize their potential. Additionally, we will cultivate new strategies to navigate areas of struggle, allowing you to break free from negativity and step into your authentic self.
Not your “typical therapist”
I am most energized when I can guide my clients to confront those difficult spaces, enabling them to make meaningful changes in their lives.Clients often describe me as bold, direct, funny, and a bit unconventional. I bring a wealth of life experience in my areas of specialization, which enriches my work as a therapist. Rather than simply sitting back, nodding, and agreeing, I believe in actively engaging with my clients, as I find that passive listening is neither effective therapy nor authentic to my style.
I also believe that, when clinically relevant, sharing parts of my life experiences can enhance your therapeutic journey. It goes without saying that therapy should be a safe, empathy-rich space for you to express yourself–-that is a baseline. Not only will I create this for you but I will also challenge you to venture into areas you may tend to avoid. Growth is by nature uncomfortable (and a bit messy sometimes) but the rewards are immense.
The relationship we build together …
is a sacred one—meant to evolve and deepen over time. I believe that a strong therapeutic alliance is essential for an effective and successful therapeutic experience. I encourage my clients to challenge or disagree with me when they feel it’s necessary and to provide feedback on what aspects of therapy they need more or less of.
Your input is just as valuable as mine. While I may hold the title of "therapist," you are the true expert in your life, and my role is to help you make sense of it. The more consistently we meet and explore various aspects of your life, the stronger our connection will become, leading to greater insights and the support you need to achieve meaningful outcomes in this journey.
My Background
As a gay Lebanese-American man and former entertainment industry professional, I bring a compassionate and inclusive perspective to my therapy practice. My path to self-acceptance and authenticity was a long and challenging one, requiring me to unravel deeply ingrained beliefs and societal expectations. While I achieved professional success as a business owner that provided financial comfort, I often felt unfulfilled, grappling with depression, anxiety, and a lack of purpose. This sense of disconnection pushed me toward reckless behaviors until I found clarity through therapy.
My 20+ year career in the entertainment industry honed my skills in communication, leadership, and advocacy. These roles enriched my understanding of identity and personal growth and fueled my passion for supporting individuals through their unique challenges. My ability to identify these strengths is what led me to become a therapist.
Grounded in empathy and cultural sensitivity, my practice focuses on helping clients explore their identities, confront personal challenges, and navigate significant life transitions. I integrate my lived experiences and professional expertise to foster a supportive and empowering environment where clients can embrace their true selves in order to make meaningful change.
Experience & Education
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Licensure
California Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist #149147
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Degrees
Masters of Clinical Psychology, Antioch University.
Bachelor of Art Studio, Minor in Art History, University of California, Santa Barbara.