Hello, and welcome! My name is Samantha Hughes, and I am a Professional Counselor licensed in the State of Michigan. I have over 5 years of experience working as a therapist. During that time, I have worked a variety of individuals, and helped them through a wide range of issues. My therapeutic approach is one of walking beside you on your journey of self discovery, growth, understanding, and breakthroughs. 1) We will dive deep into your history and figure out what got you where you are now, and where you would like to be instead. 2) We will discuss what it takes to get you where you want to be, by setting and tracking therapeutic goals. 3) We will work through each of those goals together, all while handling the thoughts, emotions, fears and wins that come up for you throughout the process. Other therapy information: I strive to empower my clients to make progress and growth in their lives through the therapeutic counseling process. The therapy I provide is goal-oriented, which means that we will work together to create goals and a roadmap for how to get you from where you are now, to where you really want to be. You will be in the drivers’ seat the entire way, with me in the passenger seat, navigating. In this way, we will work towards goals that YOU set, and with a plan that YOU feel will be most helpful in your situation. I would describe my therapeutic style as sensitive, caring, and empathetic. I am thoughtful, respectful, and I believe that you are the expert in your own life – you live in it, after all! I approach therapy from a Strengths Based perspective, which means that I actively look for and draw out the things that others are good at — things that I will I lovingly refer to as your “superpowers”. This means that instead of constantly looking for flaws, we find and celebrate where you are already doing well, and build upon those areas to ultimately help you achieve your goals. No matter what you are struggling with, it is important that you know you are not alone in this journey. I will be here for you every step of the way. As a therapist I value: -a safe and encouraging atmosphere -finding strengths in others, and solutions to problems -the healing power of the therapeutic relationship -unconditional positive regard for the client I offer live sessions, as well as asynchronous messaging throughout the week. Messaging mirrors collaborative journaling, a well-researched process known to encourage mindfulness, self-reflection, and healing. The act of writing things down presents a powerful medium through which intuition speaks and insight emerges. It allows clients to own their feelings, reflect upon their situation, AND still connect with an expert. Plus, you can send me a message anytime! If you want to work toward feeling your best, and learn your superpowers along the way, come join me in the therapeutic process. With care and understanding, Samantha Hughes, MA, LPC, NCC