Meet Dr. Samantha Rae, therapist in Orlando
You can unhook from anxiety and stress to live the life of your dreams.
From the outside it appears you’re living a damn good life, but inside things are a little chaotic. The same passion that propels you also drives you to the brink of burnout sometimes. You try hard to keep everything under control, and it’s overwhelming.
Therapy with me is a place where you can let go of the pressure to be perfect and explore what it means to be human.
You can unclench your jaw, drop your shoulders, and let out a long sigh at the start of each session. It’s your space to come as you are and grow into the person you want to be.
I know you have the natural ability to heal and thrive under the right circumstances, so I focus on creating a mindful, compassionate environment for you to safely explore your thoughts and emotions. Once you feel what it’s like to experience unconditional positive regard, you’ll begin to outgrow the harsh inner critic you developed long ago.
Similar to Marie Kondo’s philosophy on tidying up your home, I believe it’s important to sort out your mental space. I’ll help you examine your beliefs and stories you hold about yourself, honor them, and let go of the ones that no longer serve you. This makes room for you to focus on what brings you joy and supports your well-being.
You’re used to solving problems on your own, but with therapy you can go even further.
You’re painfully self-aware of your problem areas, and even have an idea of what you need to do differently. You’ve read self-help books and listened to podcasts on growth & mindset. You’ve tried various planners, habit trackers, and wellness apps. Maybe you’ve been to other therapists. But the relief was temporary.
Mental health isn’t one-size fits all. Sometimes you need the help of a caring expert to break stubborn patterns. I provide a tailored approach to your concerns, and the accountability for you to follow through when things get hard.
I’m down-to-earth and down to talk about the hard stuff. I won’t push you to discuss things when you’re not ready, but if you hate small talk like me, and prefer getting deep, you’re in the right place.
I’m no stranger to stress and anxiety. I spent a decade completing higher education, landed my *dream* job, and found myself in a serious case of burnout within the first year. I’ve learned a lot since then, and I love to share new insights & resources.
Clients describe me as warm and comforting, “like a down blanket.” That doesn’t mean I won’t challenge you when necessary. I value honesty. I’m not the kind of friend (or therapist) who will let you go out the door with food in your teeth.
If you haven’t felt understood by other therapists or people in your life, I want you to know I will do my best to always make you feel seen and understood.
I help ambitious overthinkers with:
Just because you carry it all so well doesn’t mean it’s not heavy. Learn how you can lighten the load.
You’re functioning well enough, but perhaps it’s time to try thriving now that you’ve mastered surviving.
It sucks feeling like a fraud when you worked so hard to get here. You deserve to own your expertise.
Training & experience:
Highlights
Licensed Psychologist (PY10106) in Florida
PSYPACT Authorized to practice telepsychology in 39 states across the U.S.
Member of the American Psychological Association (APA)
Advanced training in Acceptance & Commitment Therapy for perfectionism and people pleasing
Education
Psy.D., Clinical Psychology from Indiana University of Pennsylvania
M.A., Clinical Psychology from Indiana University of Pennsylvania
B.S., Psychology from University of Pittsburgh
Training
Postdoctoral Internship at Re-New Psychological Services in Washington, DC - helped high-achieving professionals (physicians, attorneys, directors, consultants, etc.)
Predoctoral Internship at The College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, VA - helped gifted undergraduate, graduate, and law students
Completed coursework and trainings in Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction; Dialectical Behavior Therapy; and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder