Samantha James
You're great at what you do, but no one sees what's happening inside.
Do you crave the ability to handle it all, flawlessly? Are you juggling numerous responsibilities, making it seem effortless to those around you? Does it feel like you're carrying the weight of it all on your shoulders?
Many clients come to me wanting to stop the battle between who they “should be” and who they are. They know it’s time to let go of the shame and inner critic that lives in their head all day and night. They’ve probably read the self-help books and maybe even been to therapy before, but nothing has gotten them to the bottom of their concerns and actually created the growth and change they’re looking for.
I work with people who are successful in their life and outside it looks like they have it all together, but inside things are starting to come apart. You have worked hard for the success you have achieved. You know how to spend long days and nights working towards your goals, and what to sacrifice to achieve them. But no one sees the energy it takes to get out of bed in the morning, one too many glasses of wine at night, or the racing thoughts that are making it difficult to sleep.
You may have survived some tough things from childhood, but you pushed past them. So, why should the past affect you now? You've been driven for as long as you can remember, why do you suddenly feel like you're losing your control? Because playing a part is exhausting. You’re trying your hardest to be the perfect partner, parent, daughter, or colleague, and maybe on the surface it looks okay. But underneath, you feel like you’re breaking. Over time these recurring thoughts and emotions become a never-ending loop.
When I sit with you, I aspire to be something different in your life, something you haven't tried before. I am invested in you finding confidence and fulfillment (and not just on the outside) because I truly believe that you deserve it. It's important to me to learn your story and understand the path that has brought you to where you are today. Together, we will work to explore your past, including your relationships and experiences that have shaped you. I’m here to help alleviate these symptoms, but also to figure out their true cause. In a world that can often make us feel like we aren't good enough, I am committed to creating a judgement free environment where you can feel seen and heard. I will challenge you to embrace vulnerability and hold you accountable not only for recognizing your thoughts, but also to fully experience your emotions. You will learn new ways to think and take the steps to create a more confident and fulfilling life.
- Anxiety Disorders
- College Students
- Perfectionism
- High Achievers
- Life Transitions
- Relationships
- Indiana
- Nebraska
Random obsession: Bravo TV (really just any reality TV because it's so much fun as a therapist to watch!!)
What's in your bag right now? AirPods, wallet, chapstick, receipts from five months ago.
Go-to comfort food: Margherita pizza (add prosciutto, mmm).
Ideal Saturday: Waking up early and moving my body. Saturdays are my designated "fun day", so I love to spend it exploring new coffee shops or restaurants, enjoying quality time with my partner, indulging in some shopping, or engaging in other enjoyable activities!
Alma Mater: University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire & University of Nebraska at Omaha