Samantha Howard, LPC

Life doesn’t have to feel this overwhelming.

Right now, you may feel stuck. Anxiety, depression, or past trauma are weighing heavily, leaving you exhausted, unsure of yourself, or out of sync with the people around you.

Maybe you’ve noticed unhealthy patterns—staying in relationships or jobs that don’t serve you, numbing with food, alcohol, or spending, or withdrawing from people you care about.

You know something has to change, but you’re not sure where to start.

What you want most is to feel hopeful, empowered, and at peace with yourself. You want to understand your feelings, break free from old cycles, and live in alignment with your goals and values.

I CAN HELP.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over a decade of experience helping teens, young adults, and adults manage anxiety, depression, trauma, and major life transitions. I have worked extensively with veterans, college students, and individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community, and I bring a warm, strengths-based approach that meets you where you are.

My background includes years at the VA supporting veterans, and assisting with research related to psychosis-risk syndromes. These experiences have deepened my ability to hold space for complex challenges while offering practical, effective support.

My approach

I offer Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), a highly effective, evidence-based therapy that helps individuals process and heal from trauma, PTSD, and distressing memories. EMDR works by helping the brain reprocess painful experiences so they no longer feel as overwhelming in the present. Many clients find that EMDR brings meaningful relief and progress when traditional talk therapy alone has not been enough.

In addition, I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients identify and shift unhelpful thought patterns that fuel anxiety, depression, and self-doubt. CBT provides practical tools you can apply right away in daily life.

I also incorporate mindfulness-based strategies to reduce stress, calm the nervous system, and build greater self-awareness. Together, these approaches create a balanced, personalized path to healing—one that not only addresses past pain but also builds the coping skills and confidence needed for lasting change.

I believe therapy should be collaborative, goal-oriented, and empowering. Together, we’ll explore what’s keeping you stuck, identify your strengths, and build the skills and strategies you need to move forward with confidence.

I support…

Teens & Young Adults

I empower teens, college students, and young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships, and school stress. Together we work on self-confidence, coping skills, and building healthier connections.

LGBTQIA+ Individuals & Families

I support LGBTQIA+ teens and young adults who are exploring identity, navigating challenges, and embracing joy in being themselves. I also support parents who want to better understand and affirm their children.

Individuals Struggling with Anxiety, Depression & Life Transitions

I work with adults facing moves, job changes, divorce, loss, or patterns that no longer serve them. Therapy provides tools for managing stress, increasing self-confidence, and creating a life that feels aligned.

College Athletes & High Performers

I support athletes and professionals managing the pressure to perform. Together we work on managing anxiety, staying grounded under stress, and exploring identity beyond performance.

Online Counseling

I provide counseling both in our Avon, CT office and through telehealth sessions for clients across Connecticut. Virtual therapy is convenient, flexible, and especially helpful for those balancing school, sports, work, or family commitments. [Learn more about Online Counseling ➝]

Next Step

You don’t have to face this alone. With the right support, you can move from overwhelm and self-doubt to confidence, clarity, and hope.

Call us today at (860) 255-4017 to schedule a free 15-minute consultation and see if working together feels like the right next step for you.

Credentials

  • Licensed Professional Counselor (CT #2769)

  • M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, University of Saint Joseph (West Hartford, CT)

  • B.A. in Psychology, University of Saint Joseph (West Hartford, CT)

  • Trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)

  • Certified in Structured Interview for Psychosis-Risk

  • Experienced in working with Clinically High Risk (CHR) for psychosis populations

  • Knowledgeable in mindfulness-based healing techniques