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About Me
I am a licensed professional counselor with a dual master’s degree (1987) in clinical and school psychology from the State University of New York in Plattsburgh, NY. I have 35 years of clinical experience in various settings such as schools, universities, mental health centers, health organizations and private practice.
My vast professional experience includes individual and group therapy in the areas of depression, anxiety, trauma, childhood disorders, stress management, self-esteem, perfectionism, shame, grief and loss, death and dying, parenting, classroom management and so on. For 25 years I have conducted numerous workshops and presentations on mental health topics, team building, and cultural diversity within the community.
Pain and suffering are inherent to our human existence, which is most definitely not an easy one. However, we can learn to release the suffering and remain centered in our inner peace despite our circumstances. To allay some of the seriousness of life, I am proud to have incorporated laughter in my work. I am a certified laughter leader and teacher trainer aiming to spread laughter and joy in the world. Over the years I have run numerous laughter workshops to help individuals to learn to play with their pain in a therapeutic way. I am the proud developer of a 2-day laughter certification program titled, "Choose Laughter: A Way to Wellness." It is has been a pleasure to teach individuals to bring laughter into their lives and that of others.
I am also a certified, experienced Yoga and meditation teacher with training in the world renowned Integral Yoga tradition. My experience and knowledge includes physical poses, yoga philosophy, effective breathing practices, meditation, deep relaxation, anatomy and physiology, mindfulness and healthy lifestyle. Born and raised in India, the home land of Yoga, I have been practicing Yoga since I was six years of age. I teach Yoga (online and in-person) at my studio, University of Lynchburg and when requested by local organizations. As a well trained Yoga teacher and experienced practitioner, I have had the good fortune to add the mindfulness practices of Yoga to my repertoire of psychotherapeutic skills. I feel privileged and grateful to share my experience and expertise with others.
I am a compassionate, highly experienced professional with genuine care for the well-being of others. From a very young age it has been my goal to make a positive difference in the world through my work and service. It will be a privilege to be a part of your personal or organizational journey towards wellness, creativity, productivity and joy.
If I can be of service, kindly contact me at sdpsy@verizon.net
Thank you.
Sam
“Learn to advocate for yourself, for it is your birthright. However, do not forget to advocate for others without a voice. It is our responsibility as humans.” Sampada Desai
