Hi, it's nice to meet you!

I'm Sam Bures-Singh, and I'm glad you're here.

What is a fun fact about myself?

I am fluent in Spanish and am currently (slowly) learning Italian and ASL!

What can you expect as my client?

I work collaboratively with clients, focusing on bringing awareness to blind spots that may be hindering progress. As your therapist, you can expect empathy, curiosity, and humility, as I view you as the expert in your own life. My approach is culturally-appropriate and trauma-informed, with specific training and lived experience in social justice and diversity. I utilize Relational Cultural Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Somatic Experiencing. We will focus on your existing support system, or lack thereof, and begin processing the different opinions, voices, or stories you tell yourself to identify their origin. With your consent, we may also begin to tune awareness into how certain topics bring up different felt sensations.

Who am I outside of therapy?

Outside of therapy, I am a new parent raising a baby with my husband. Experiencing the joys and grief that come with pregnancy and postpartum recovery has given me unique insight that I bring to my work with other parents. You can often find me at home snuggling my pets, outside trying a new hike, or visiting a park. I also enjoy challenging myself by cooking new cuisines!

Pronouns: She/They

How did I become a therapist?

I grew up in a culture where therapy is stigmatized and the idea of “paying” someone to listen is taboo. However, my first personal experience in therapy was transformative, showing me the value of having someone hold and value my truth. This led me to pursue a Bachelor’s in Psychology and eventually a Master’s degree, aiming to give back what helped me grow. Additionally, my own journey in substance recovery has given me deep empathy for those experiencing substance use and for their impacted loved ones.

I hold a Master’s in Professional Mental Health Counseling with a Specialization in Addictions. Major coursework included: Drugs, the Brain, and Behavior; Diagnosing Emotional and Mental Disorders; Models of Addiction and Recovery; and Motivational Interviewing. I have obtained a CGACII (Certified Gambling Addiction Counselor) through specialized training and clinical hours.

I volunteered, worked as a graduate assistant and intern, and was a full-time counselor at the Lewis and Clark Problem Gambling Clinic for over three years. I worked with clients experiencing or impacted by problematic gambling, as well as individuals recovering from substance use and a variety of mental health diagnoses. Given that gambling addiction has one of the highest rates of suicidal ideation and attempts, I have extensive experience helping individuals and their loved ones navigate suicide.

Previously, I had worked as a caregiver and medication technician in assisted living and memory care facilities helping individuals navigate end of life.

I am currently prioritizing working with new parents or soon-to-be parents. I am also focusing on continuing my work in addiction recovery, including substances and behavioral addictions such as gambling, gaming, or shopping.