Difficult and challenging experiences are part of being human, and yet sometimes it’s hard to know how to move forward in life. Sammy believes therapy can be useful in these times. Sammy can help you explore and understand what is happening with the goal of creating meaningful change.

Sammy is a curious, compassionate, and authentic therapist, and will work alongside you to understand what matters most to you and help you to make changes that align with your values. Sammy works alongside people who have experienced trauma, as well as those who are experiencing low mood or depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, and stressors associated with life changes and transitions. She has a particular interest in working with people experiencing challenges in relationships, managing and tolerating emotions, and navigating their own identities and place in the world. 

Sammy uses an integrative approach to therapy that draws on a number of therapy models including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, Attachment-based therapies, and Schema-based therapies. Sammy has experience working with adults, adolescents and families across hospitals and community settings. Sammy has developed and overseen the establishment of award-winning trauma and suicide prevention services for adult and youth in a large metropolitan Sydney hospital. She has also established and co-ordinated outpatient DBT programs and has been comprehensively trained in DBT. 

In addition to Southside, Sammy works at the University of Wollongong conducting research and supporting the implementation of evidence-based treatments for people with complex mental health presentations, suicidality and personality disorders. Prior to becoming a clinical psychologist, Sammy worked in a range of international settings supporting the implementation of human rights-based approaches to mental health. 

Sammy holds a PhD, Masters in Clinical Psychology, and Honours degree in psychology from the University of Sydney. She also holds a Masters of Community Development (International) from the University of New South Wales. She is registered as a Clinical Psychologist with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and is a member of the Australian Clinical Psychology Association (ACPA).