About Sami Cortez
Focus areas
Anxiety
Clientele seen
Teenagers (13-17)
Individuals
Young adults (18-24)
Adults (25-64)
Treatment approaches
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Strength-Based
Gestalt
Trauma Focused
Humanistic
Identity
Gender
FemaleEthnicity
White
Languages spoken
English
Getting to know Sami Cortez
Oftentimes, clients feel stuck in the darkest places or have lost the spark of joy in their life. This could be due to difficult transitions, loss, various fears or anxieties, or uncertainty about their path in life. By identifying the how and why of our emotions and actions, we can begin to improve and change behaviors that hold us back. When we become more aware of our emotions, thoughts, and actions, we can move steadily toward the life we dream of.
As a play therapist with a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Sam Houston State University, I am passionate about working not only with children and teens but also with adults who want to explore their inner child to bring creativity, joy, and playfulness back into their lives. I often use art, storytelling, metaphor, or visual aids when appropriate to facilitate growth and teach key coping skills. I have helped many clients move through the lingering effects and pains of trauma or life transitions, whether recent or long buried. I support healing and growth after difficult experiences, always progressing at your pace and comfort level.
I work with clients who often worry they are “not good enough” just as they are or struggle with anger or anxiety about how the world might treat them. Together, we can help you learn to love yourself for who you are, not what others say or expect you to be. My clients include people who struggle with anxiety, self-esteem, life transitions, as well as those who identify as LGBTQ+ or gender non-conforming.
When I’m not working, you can find me playing or snuggling with my dog, reading sci-fi or fantasy books, playing RPG video games, journaling, crocheting while watching the newest HBO series, or spending time with loved ones—especially in nature or around food.
Contact me today to see if we are the right fit to start your healing journey. I can’t wait to meet you!
What should a new client know about working with you?
I create a safe and nurturing environment, to explore your goals (even virtually), where you are steadily guided along your own healing journey. We will create goals to address your unique challenges. As we continue working toward your goals, I will provide you with resources (and sometimes exercises outside of session) to guide you in developing strategies and skills to manage your symptoms and concerns for yourself or in your relationships.
I understand that ultimately, you know what is best for you. But, I can help you gently open doors, as we work together to improve your quality of life, relationships, and sense of self. My highest priority is for you to feel empowered, gain self-confidence, and find direction to move forward to becoming the best possible version of yourself.
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In-network insurances
Aetna
BlueCross BlueShield
Cigna
UnitedHealthcare
UnitedHealthcare Oxford
More information on payments and coverage
Payment is due after each session and will be charged with your card on file for any portion of patient responsibility. Receipts will be provided at the time of the charge. This typically takes place 2-4 weeks after the session, once your insurance has had a chance to process the claim. We try our best to verify eligibility, but it is ultimately your responsibility to check coverage and out-of-pocket costs for services. For out-of-network visits, you will be billed at the provider’s self-pay rate, and we can provide an invoice for you to submit to your insurance for potential out-of-network reimbursement based on your plan’s benefits.
Education and background
Practice names
Education and training
- Sam Houston State University, Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
NPI number
1689386732
How soon can I make an appointment with Sami Cortez?
Generally, Sami Cortez has appointments available on Zocdoc within 1 week. You can see Sami Cortez's earliest availability on Zocdoc and make an appointment online.
Is Sami Cortez accepting new patients?
Sami Cortez generally accepts new patients on Zocdoc. You can see Sami Cortez's earliest availability on Zocdoc and schedule an appointment online.
Does Sami Cortez accept my insurance?
Choose your insurance plan to verify if Sami Cortez is in-network.
Can I make an appointment with Sami Cortez online?
Yes, you can make an appointment online with Sami Cortez using Zocdoc. It’s simple, secure, and free.
What practice does Sami Cortez work with?
Sami Cortez works with Grow Therapy.
What are common reasons for patients to see Sami Cortez?
Sami Cortez frequently sees patients for Depression, Psychotherapy, Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit, Sleep Problems, and Therapy. You can see other visit reasons for Sami Cortez on their profile.
What languages does Sami Cortez speak?
Sami Cortez speaks English.