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geometry-shapes iconSubstance Use, Stress / Mental Stress / Work Stress, Trauma / PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Sleep / Insomnia, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction
Online in Massachusetts
22 years in practice
Ages served: 18-65+
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Accepted insurance & self-pay

Charlene accepts 20 insurers
Aetna
Blue Cross Blue Shield
Anthem
Mass General Brigham (Optum)
Optum Serve
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts | BCBS
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts | BCBS Medicare Advantage (HMO | PPO)
Blue Cross Blue Shield | Anthem (Blue Card)
Compsych
First Health Network
Harvard Pilgrim
JP Farley Corporation
Multi Plan PHCS
Oscar Health
Quest Behavioral Health
Tufts Health Plan
Tufts Health Plan Medicare Advantage
UMR
United Healthcare | Optum
United Healthcare | Optum - Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
United Healthcare | Optum Medicare Advantage
Uprise EAP
SELF-PAY COSTS
Out-of-pocket session costs for clients who don’t have insurance or aren’t covered by their insurance for mental health services.
$375
first session
$300
subsequent sessions
About Provider

About Charlene

I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience supporting individuals facing depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorder, and substance use challenges. I work with adults who feel overwhelmed, emotionally stuck, or in need of stability and clarity. I take a collaborative, compassionate approach that combines evidence-based treatment with a strong focus on listening and understanding each person's unique experiences. I provide psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and supportive therapy while helping clients develop practical coping skills and realistic treatment goals. 

I use a collaborative, patient-centered approach that combines evidence-based medication management with supportive therapy. I focus on treating anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, and substance use, helping clients build coping skills, improve emotional regulation, and work toward lasting mental wellness.

Taking the first step toward support can feel difficult, but you don’t have to face life’s challenges alone. I strive to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard, respected, and understood. When you’re ready, I welcome the opportunity to work with you on your journey toward healing and balance.

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"I approach my work with compassion and cultural sensitivity, striving to create a safe and nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, supported, and empowered to work toward emotional stability and personal growth."

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Get to know Charlene

Why did you decide to become a counselor or psychiatric provider? 

I decided to become a psychiatric provider because I have a deep passion for helping people navigate life’s challenges and improve their mental and emotional well-being. I am drawn to this work because I believe that with the right support, guidance, and tools, individuals can gain clarity, resilience, and hope, even in the face of difficult experiences. Being able to empower clients to understand themselves, develop coping skills, and work toward meaningful change is both personally fulfilling and professionally motivating.

What types of clients do you work best with?

I work best with adults who are motivated to improve their mental health and well-being, including those experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, or challenges related to substance use. I also support individuals navigating life transitions, stress, or difficulties with emotional regulation. I connect most effectively with clients who are open to collaboration, reflection, and developing practical strategies to manage their symptoms and achieve their personal goals.

What's one thing you wish all clients knew about therapy, mental health, or the healing process?

One thing I wish all clients knew is that healing is rarely linear, and progress often comes in small, meaningful steps. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness, and therapy works best when it’s a collaborative process—your willingness to engage, reflect, and practice new skills outside of sessions is just as important as what happens in the room. Growth takes time, patience, and selfcompassion.

What can clients expect in their first session with you and in the early stages of therapy?

In the first session, clients can expect a warm, nonjudgmental space where we focus on getting to know you, understanding your concerns, and discussing your goals for therapy or psychiatric care. We will review your mental health history, current challenges, and any medications or previous treatments. In the early stages, I work collaboratively to develop a personalized plan, provide education about your symptoms, and begin introducing strategies to help you build coping skills, stabilize emotions, and start making meaningful progress.

What personal experiences or values inform your practice as a therapist/provider? 

My practice is informed by a strong belief in empathy, respect, and the inherent strength of every individual. Having witnessed the impact of mental health challenges on friends, family, and myself, I deeply understand how life’s difficulties can affect emotions, relationships, and daily functioning. I value creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, validated, and empowered to take an active role in their healing and growth.

How do you tailor therapy to meet each client’s unique needs?

I tailor therapy by first listening closely to each client’s experiences, concerns, and goals, and then collaboratively developing a personalized plan that fits their needs and lifestyle. I integrate evidence-based approaches—such as CBT, DBT, and supportive therapy—while adjusting the pace, strategies, and focus based on what resonates most with the client. My goal is to provide practical tools, emotional support, and guidance that align with each person’s values and strengths, helping them make meaningful progress.

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Other areas of focus

SpecialitiesSubstance Use, Stress / Mental Stress / Work Stress, Trauma / PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Sleep / Insomnia, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction, Grief, Oppositional Defiance Disorder (ODD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Anger Management, Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Suicidal Ideation, Sports Performance, Social Anxiety, Psychosis, Personality Disorders, Performance Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Impulse Control Disorders, Antisocial Personality, Agoraphobia, Self-Harming, Eating Disorder, Sexual Abuse, Coping Skills, LGBTQIA+
ApproachesMotivational Interviewing, Multicultural, Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Psychotherapy
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Education and training

Years in practice
22 years
Graduating institute
Walden University
Graduating degree
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
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Additional details

Languages spoken by this provider
English
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NPI number1720853849
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State of practiceMA
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License numberRN2271581
Practice location

Practice information

Book your first session

Medication/Psychiatry
Charlene is available for Video visits.
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Charlene Sama's profile image

Charlene Sama

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)she/her