Accepted insurance & self-pay
About Sam
Sam Nelson is a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern with over 3 years of experience in the mental health field. She has worked with children, teens, and adults with a range of clinical concerns including anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, borderline personality disorder, behavioral addictions, and trauma.
Sam received her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of North Florida. She draws from evidence-based therapy modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, exposure and response prevention, motivational interviewing, play therapy, EMDR, and expressive arts techniques.
Sam believes the first step to feeling better lies in accepting ourselves as we are in this moment so that we can identify areas for growth and make positive changes. Everyone faces challenges and deserves the support to get through them! Sam would appreciate the opportunity to walk alongside you on your journey toward healing.

"As a nonjudgmental therapist, I understand we all try our best to get through life’s challenges with the tools and skills we have available at the current moment. However, I am confident we can work together to enhance your strengths and develop new strategies for growth and healing."
Get to know Sam
Why did you decide to become a counselor or psychiatric provider?
I have always been very interested in the brain and how it works. I decided to become a counselor so that I could not only use my knowledge of neurobiology to help my clients better understand where their mental health struggles come from, but to also help them cope with these struggles and lead easier, more fulfilling lives.
What types of clients do you work with best?
I work best with clients who are willing to learn new skills and explore alternate ways of thinking.
What type of clients are you most excited to work with?
I am most excited to work with clients who are ready for change and willing to put in the work. I also really enjoy working with children and getting to employ creative therapeutic techniques.
What's one thing you wish all clients knew?
Progress is not always linear and therapy can be hard work!
Why did you choose to practice at Thriveworks?
I chose to practice with Thriveworks due to the high level of accessibility that is offered to clients, including the ability to choose in person or virtual sessions as well as having both psychiatry and therapy providers under the same practice.
What inspires you?
Witnessing my clients overcome huge challenges that can otherwise be extremely defeating inspires me in my own life.
What can clients expect in their first session with you?
During the first session, I like to establish a safe, non-judgmental space so that we can start to build a strong rapport. I like to focus on getting to know you as well as what prompted you to seek services.
What do you want to accomplish with an individual in their first session?
During the first session, I like to collaborate with my client in developing some initial treatment goals that they would like to accomplish in therapy. It's always helpful to have a good starting point.
What should clients know about you before scheduling a first session?
I have always been a very curious and understanding person, which I believe has contributed to my ability to get along with anyone I meet.
What do you do for fun/on your time off?
I value spending time with family and spoiling my dog! I also love to read and practice many different forms of art including graphite drawing and sculpting.
Other areas of focus
Education and training
- Years in practice
- 3 years
- Graduating institute
- University of North Florida
- Graduating degree
- Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
