Samm H. MA, LLPC

As we bear witness to ongoing violence and dehumanization- it is critical that we slow our pace enough to identify how our system is processing active trauma. What is your go to? How do you actively cope? And what do you do in your evening to get to a space to sleep? Liberation therapy invites you to learn to hold paradox. There is no “self-care” that will “help” witnessing murder. These tools are dangerous and continue to disconnect you to humanity and the self. Holding the paradox of ongoing violence and all the emotions/feelings that surface while being criticially conscious of what is happening, while still moving forward- is a skill to be built.
Western Psychology has done a disservice to us facilitating a society that puts bandaids on bullet holes, and cement over feeling and holistic connection.
Humans are far more intelligent and capable than our systems imply. We are capable of being entirely emotional beings, without going into a state of withdrawal or avoidance.
Those are western coping skills. I invite you to entertain more integrative and anti-oppressive approaches to care by exploring spaces, resources and most especially Mental Health Care that will help empower and liberate you- not keep you in chains.
Exercise:
Sit with witnessing. Breathe. Speak out loud what is coming up for you. Is it an emotion? Where do you feel it in your body? What does it feel like? (Write what you identify down). What does feeling these things- illicit in you? Are you comfortable with what it illicits? Why? Or why not? And finally- what do you think you should be doing with all that you’ve sat with? Do you feel urgency? Write that down. Breathe. Now remind yourself that although you are witnessing violence- at the moment you are not in danger. This is where the work begins of aiding your system in learning emotional tolerance and critically understanding the difference between fear, anger, uncomfortability and real danger.
Ground yourself with something familiar (fidget toy, pet, stuffed animal, frozen orange, partner, etc.) if you start to feel overwhelmed by what you’re exploring and keep breathing.
We can, and must- do this together.

Come join me for therapy today either in person or virtually from anywhere in Michigan! I am here and eager to work with my fellow Q***r community in addition to those in social justice!! ***r

Let's all say hi to Samm! Samm is a liberation therapist who typically works with teens, adults and couples who have experienced oppression. Samm strives to provide an affirming space through their anti-oppressive approach. If you're interested in exploring on a deeper level request an appointment with Samm: https://wildfernswellness.com/meet-the-team/

Today we are honoring the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr., a visionary, leader and activist. MLK stood for justice, freedom and compassion. We hold these values in our work and maintain our mission of providing a space for marginalized individuals to receive healing centered care.

Attention all Protesters/Mutual Aid/Direct Action folks! Are you in need of a therapist that will assist in empowering your work? Help you find balance of rage and hope? Check out my PsychToday profile and reach out today if you think we would be a good fit!

Samm Heberlein, Pre-Licensed Professional, Lansing, MI, 48912 | Psychology Today Samm Heberlein, Pre-Licensed Professional, Lansing, MI, 48912, (517) 289-2111, I find passion in working with individuals that might face anxiety, depression low-self esteem and "trouble controlling emotions" due to intersecting identities. Many struggles and barriers that BIPOC and LGBTQIA2S+ indiv...

Hello Folx! I recently began a position at Wild Ferns Wellness as an LLPC and I am currently taking new clients! 🤩 I have attached my Psych Today profile as well as the Wild Ferns team (https://wildfernswellness.com/meet-the-team/) link so you can read up on me and see if we would be a good fit! Reach out today to find out more! In liberation for all!
https://www.psychologytoday.com/profile/1613732

Samm Heberlein, Pre-Licensed Professional, Lansing, MI, 48912 | Psychology Today Samm Heberlein, Pre-Licensed Professional, Lansing, MI, 48912, (517) 289-2111, I find passion in working with individuals that might face anxiety, depression low-self esteem and "trouble controlling emotions" due to intersecting identities. Many struggles and barriers that BIPOC and LGBTQIA2S+ indiv...

You made it to 2026! Pat yourself on the back for getting through it all! We'll see y'all in therapy, don't forget to schedule an appointment here: https://wildfernswellness.com/mental-health-therapy/