Sam is a highly experienced registered counsellor and clinical supervisor, specializing in Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) issues and the unique needs of the LGBTQI+ community. Throughout his career, Sam has demonstrated a deep commitment to supporting individuals who are navigating both substance use challenges and issues related to sexual orientation, gender identity, and intersectional experiences. Sam combines a compassionate, trauma-informed approach with evidence-based practices to provide holistic care and guidance to those in need.
As a qualified and experienced clinical supervisor, Sam also dedicates a significant portion of their professional life to mentoring and guiding other professionals in the mental health and counselling fields. This role is integral to the growth and development of the next generation of clinicians, helping them navigate the complexities of working with vulnerable populations and promoting best practices in AOD and LGBTQI+ care.
In his counselling work, Sam adopts an empathetic, client-centered approach, creating a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their feelings, behaviors, and challenges. With a strong foundation in motivational interviewing and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), Sam works collaboratively with clients to develop strategies for change, helping them build resilience and self-efficacy. This approach is particularly effective in the AOD space, where issues of addiction and substance misuse are often intertwined with trauma, mental health challenges, and systemic discrimination.
In addition to their expertise in AOD, Sam is deeply knowledgeable about the specific issues faced by LGBTQI+ individuals, particularly those related to mental health, substance use, discrimination, and social stigma. They work with clients from diverse backgrounds, helping them address feelings of isolation, marginalization, and identity struggles while fostering a sense of empowerment and self-acceptance. Whether working with clients dealing with coming out, gender dysphoria, or the complex intersectionality of being LGBTQI+ and in recovery, Sam is committed to providing a supportive, culturally competent service tailored to each client’s unique journey.
As a clinical supervisor, Sam supports the professional development of counsellors and therapists who seek to build their expertise in working with AOD and LGBTQI+ clients. They offer supervision sessions that are not only reflective and developmental but also clinically rigorous. Through supervision, Sam helps clinicians manage the emotional and ethical challenges they may encounter in their practice, ensuring they maintain a high standard of care while avoiding burnout and secondary trauma.
Sam is an active member of several professional associations, including ACA and ACA COS, and regularly engages in ongoing professional development to stay at the forefront of best practices in both AOD treatment and LGBTQI+ affirmative care. He his also an advocate for systemic change and work toward reducing the stigma surrounding both substance use and LGBTQI+ identities in mental health services.
In addition to clinical work, Sam has presented at conferences. He his passionate about breaking down barriers and fostering inclusivity in healthcare, ensuring that every client receives the care and respect they deserve.
With a deep respect for the lived experiences of clients and a firm belief in the power of compassionate, culturally competent care.
