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Hi, I'm Sam...

A long-time New York transplant by way of small-town California with a penchant for words, thoughts, and ideas.  I'm someone that is endlessly fascinated by the way people think and feel, and deeply curious about how we understand ourselves and our experiences.  That curiosity is what brings me to this work.

I have fifteen years of experience in the mental health field.  Over the years, I've worked as a therapist, an educator, an organizer, a mediator, and a supervisor.  Regardless of the role, I've always connected with people that have gotten the raw end of the deal.  I'm passionate about reaching those who feel forgotten, overlooked, or like they don't have a place in this world.  I know what it's like to have to struggle to be understood and hope to make others feel that a little less.

 

An academic by nature, I have two degrees from NYU: a BA in Stigma and Social Control in Mental Health and an MA in Mental Health Counseling. I trained at Cornell in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and at The Peace Institute in mediation. I am currently a psychoanalytic candidate at the Object Relations Institute.

While training and experience are important, I believe that the most meaningful work grows out of genuine connection and understanding.  To that end, I'm a member of many of the communities I serve, making my commitments both personal and professional.  When you come to see me, you'll get a real person and real care - a true partner in the journey that you're on.

Therapy requires using the self as an instrument of change, which is why who your therapist is truly matters.  I'm someone that values intimacy, creativity, and ethics.  Someone that will meet you where you're at with patience, intellect, and humor.  I'm here not only to help you, but to genuinely know you.

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My presence is marked by a down to earth style, incisive critical thinking, and an ability to move between gravity and playfulness. It is a privilege to be invited into the depth of another person’s inner world, and I strive to bring both reverence and levity to that process.

Samuel Kendakur, LMHC, NCC, DEI Certified, Trained Mediator

© 2026 by Samuel Kendakur.  Illustrations are digital creations and background images by Anish Kapoor.

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