SamaraCare Counseling

11/12/2025

Practicing stewardship and simplicity—using your time and resources responsibly and living freer from material excess—can greatly support mental health, especially during the busy upcoming holiday season.

When we focus less on consumption and more on meaningful experiences, we reduce the financial stress, comparison, and clutter that often accompany this time of year. So many of us compare ourselves to others. And it often fuels feelings of inadequacy and distracts us from the joy and gratitude of the present moment.

Choosing to live simply can encourage mindfulness and gratitude, helping us appreciate what we already have rather than chasing more. It also aligns our actions with our values, fostering a sense of purpose and inner peace. By simplifying our celebrations and giving thoughtfully, we create more space for rest, joy and genuine connection—what many think are the true gifts of the season.

11/11/2025

SamaraCare is delighted to welcome Dr. William Pierros as our new Director of Philanthropy, following the retirement of William Peterson, who has provided seven years of dedicated and impactful service.

Dr. Pierros brings over two decades of experience in nonprofit leadership, fundraising, and education. He has successfully led capital campaigns, grant initiatives, and donor engagement programs.

Most recently, he served as Executive Director of Hands of Peace, where he championed youth empowerment and peacebuilding initiatives. His background also includes senior development roles at Northwestern University and over 14 years as an Associate Professor at Concordia University Chicago.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Dr. Pierros to our leadership team,” said Dr. Michael Bradburn, SamaraCare’s CEO & President. “His extensive experience in fundraising, community engagement, and mission-centered leadership will be invaluable as we continue to grow our philanthropic partnerships.”

Dr. Pierros holds degrees from Vanderbilt University and Northern Illinois University, a Doctorate in Education from the University of Southern California, and a Master of Divinity.

Deeply aligned with SamaraCare’s mission, he is passionate about fostering partnerships that advance affordable access to mental health services in the six counties SamaraCare serves.

We’re excited to have Dr. Pierros on our team!

10/30/2025

We all like to feel in control. It gives us a sense of safety, order, and predictability in a world that often feels anything but. Whether it’s triple-checking plans or preparing for every “what if,” trying to control things can feel empowering—at least at first.

But what happens when that need for control takes over?

From a mental health standpoint control can be both a helpful tool and a hidden trap. Feeling in control of your choices gives us purpose, reduces chaos, and helps us meet our goals. But when control becomes rigid, perfectionistic, or rooted in fear, it can actually increase anxiety, harm relationships, and leave us feeling exhausted.

Trying to control things that are truly outside of your power—other people’s actions, the future, or life’s uncertainties—often leads to frustration and emotional burnout.

So, is control your friend or enemy? The answer lies in how you use it. Healthy control is flexible, rooted in self-awareness, and allows space for life’s unpredictability. Unhealthy control is rigid, fear-based, and unwilling to let go.

A powerful shift happens when we focus on what is within our control: our reactions, our values, and how we care for ourselves. When we stop trying to control everything, we make room for growth, connection, and peace of mind.

Letting go isn't giving up—it's choosing freedom.

10/28/2025

In a world filled with noise and constant stimulation, both listening and silence are increasingly rare—but deeply powerful. These practices, rooted in ancient spiritual traditions, offer profound benefits for mental health and personal growth.

Listening:
True listening goes beyond hearing words; it’s the act of being fully present. Listening deeply—to others, nature, or ourselves— cultivates empathy, patience, and compassion. Spiritually, many traditions teach that listening opens us to the divine, to wisdom beyond our own thoughts.
Mentally, it reduces anxiety and improves relationships. Listening lowers stress by shifting attention away from internal worries and toward meaningful connection. It enhances emotional regulation by helping us better understand others and ourselves.

The Sacredness of Silence:
Silence is not the absence of sound—it is the presence of stillness. In many spiritual traditions silence is a gateway to inner peace and divine communion. It quiets the mind, softens the ego, and nurtures a sense of awe and gratitude.
Regular moments of silence—through meditation, prayer, or simply unplugging—can reduce cortisol levels, improve focus, and foster emotional clarity. Silence allows space for reflection, helping us process experiences and restore mental balance.

Practicing Both in Daily Life:
Incorporating intentional listening and silence doesn’t require a retreat. It can start with small acts: putting your phone down during conversations, taking five quiet minutes in the morning, or simply paying attention to your breath. Over time, these moments accumulate, creating a stronger, calmer inner life.

10/22/2025

A huge thank you goes to Knox Presbyterian Church and their incredible volunteers from Knox Gives, the church’s annual service initiative.

This year, they generously provided the labor, paint, and supplies to refresh several of our clinical offices at SamaraCare's administrative headquarters in Naperville. These offices were showing signs of wear and now they look brand new!

A donated gift card helped cover paint costs, while Sherwin Williams discounted the paint and supplies by 50%. Thank you, Sherwin Williams!

But that’s not all—Knox Gives also donated games and toys to support our Child Therapy programs.

We are so grateful for our community partners. Your kindness and generosity directly impact the children, individuals, and families we serve. Thank you for making a difference!

10/20/2025

Do you feel weighed down by old stories or patterns that keep you feeling stuck?
If this sounds familiar, you're not alone.

Amber is a Pre-Licensed Clinician who works with clients ages 12-60+. Amber specializes in helping clients write a new chapter for themselves, build a toolbox of practical skills, and find new ways forward. Learn how to manage overwhelming thoughts, improve communication, and build confidence so life can feel lighter and more connected. Through her collaborative style and compassionate approach, you will learn strategies to meet your needs to approach each day with clarity and purpose.

Amber is accepting new patients with immediate availability.

Availability:
Monday, Thursday, Friday 9:30am-6:30pm
Tuesday, Wednesday 11am-7pm
Location: Naperville, Telehealth

Insurances Accepted: Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO

To learn more about Amber visit; https://samaracarecounseling.org/counselor/amber-graham/
or to schedule an appointment call 630-357-2456

Pre-Licensed LPC Intern…

10/20/2025

Samira Mohammed, Pre-licensed Counselor
Now Accepting New Clients!

Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, stress, or trauma?
You don’t have to face it alone — and you’re not meant to.

Samira provides evidence-based therapy for individuals and families navigating:
• Anxiety & Depression
• Trauma & PTSD
• Grief & Loss
• ADHD & Emotional Regulation

Her approach blends clinical expertise with compassion — creating a space where healing and progress are possible.
Therapy that meets you where you are and walks with you toward where you want to be.

Virtual & In-Person Sessions Available
Accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield

Pre-Licensed…

10/20/2025

Check out this interesting article about tolerance:

If you feel there are times when you or those around you are not tolerant enough or too tolerant, you're not alone. Tolerance can be complicated.

10/10/2025

In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, several SamaraCare clinicians attended the Mental Health & Wellness Fair hosted by the College of DuPage (COD). on October 8th.

Dedicated to improving mental health in our communities, SamaraCare is excited to have participated in this valuable opportunity to connect with students and share information about the services and support we provide. Events like this help break down stigma, promote mental wellness, and connect individuals to the resources they need to flourish.

SamaraCare clinicians engaged directly with students, offering insights into mental health care, and distributed helpful mental health resources. The fair hosted approximately 30 local agencies, offering a wide variety of tools for wellness and support.

We’re grateful for the invitation to this event. Together with the College of DuPage, we can empower students to prioritize their mental health.

09/23/2025

In our busy, digital-first lives, it’s easy to overlook the quiet power of human connection. But here’s something worth remembering: every time you welcome someone in—whether into your home, your conversation, or your attention—you’re not just doing something kind for them. You’re doing something healing for yourself.

What is Hospitality?
Hospitality is often associated with warm welcomes, gracious hosting, and creating a space where others feel comfortable and cared for. At its core, hospitality is a mindset: the genuine desire to make others feel seen, safe, and valued. It’s rooted in kindness, empathy, and respect.

Let’s take a look at how hospitality boosts your mental health—and why creating a warm space for others can help you feel more grounded, connected, and joyful.

Mental Health Benefits of Being Hospitable:

1. Gain a Sense of Purpose and Meaning
Being hospitable gives your actions meaning. Welcoming someone in—physically or emotionally—reminds you that you have something valuable to offer. A strong sense of purpose is linked to lower stress, better sleep, and increased life satisfaction.

2. It Builds Social Connections
Even small gestures—offering tea, checking in, or hosting a get-together—strengthen social bonds. These connections act as buffers against loneliness, anxiety, and depression.

3. Kindness Triggers Happy Brain Chemicals
Acts of hospitality release dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin—the “feel-good” trio. These brain chemicals naturally lift your mood and reduce feelings of isolation. Giving and hosting often make people feel energized, fulfilled, and emotionally uplifted.

4. Improves Empathy and Reduces Stress
When you put yourself in someone else’s shoes—asking how they’re doing, anticipating their needs—you practice empathy. Empathy isn’t just good for others; it rewires your brain toward understanding and patience, which reduces reactive stress responses and promotes emotional regulation.

5. Encourages Mindfulness
Being hospitable requires being present e.g. listening attentively, anticipating needs. These small, mindful actions help anchor you in the moment, reducing rumination and overthinking—two habits closely tied to depression and anxiety.

How to Practice Hospitality in Everyday Life
You don’t need to throw parties to be hospitable. Here are a few simple ways to incorporate it into your daily routine:
- Greet coworkers warmly and ask how they’re really doing.
- Invite a new colleague or neighbor for coffee or lunch.
- Offer genuine compliments and encouragement.
- Keep a welcoming home environment, even if it’s just for your family.
- Volunteer to help newcomers or support a local cause.

Final Thoughts
Being hospitable is a deeply human practice that enriches your mental health while uplifting others. In welcoming others, we often find we’re also welcoming peace, connection, and joy into our own lives.

So, the next time you open your door, your heart, or even just your schedule to someone, remember: you’re not just doing something kind—you’re doing something healthy, for them and for yourself.

09/19/2025

It’s a question rarely asked in therapy—but one that gets to the heart of who we are: What gives your life meaning and purpose?

In many cases, the emotional, behavioral, or relational challenges we bring into therapy are deeply connected to this core question. Yet, without exploring the beliefs and values that anchor us—whether religious or not—we risk missing an important piece of the healing process.

Spiritually integrated psychotherapy invites us to explore this often-overlooked part of ourselves. While not the sole focus of therapy, taking time to consider your inner sense of direction—your "why"—can lead to deeper insights and more lasting change.

We are all spiritual in one way or the other; it's human nature. Your values are always present, and becoming more aware of them can help guide your personal growth.

09/16/2025

Everyone wants more happiness—but how often do we stop to ask what happiness really is? How can we be happier?

We tend to describe happiness as a feeling: joy, contentment, excitement. But are feelings truly happiness, or simply the evidence that happiness is present? Can we take charge of our happiness and improve our mental well-being?

According to Harvard professor Arthur Brooks, the answer is yes—but with perspective. He suggests:

- No one is perfectly happy all the time
- Happiness isn’t just about what you have, but how you manage what you want
- Don’t depend on circumstances to make you happy
- Serve others-generosity fuels joy
- Prioritize deep, healthy friendships
- Nurture your family relationships

Leading psychologists and spiritual thinkers (e.g. S. Lyubomirsky, the Dalai Lama & Archbishop Desmond Tutu, M. Seligman), —have identified habits that increase happiness, including:
- Positive reframing: Learning to see situations more optimistically and balanced
- Practicing kindness and generosity: Helping others enhances your sense of purpose and connection
- Gratitude: Regularly noticing what you're thankful for rewires your brain for positivity
- Cultivating your strengths: Focusing on what you do well builds confidence and engagement
- Meditation and mindfulness: Creating moments of stillness and awareness improves emotional regulation and clarity

Happiness isn’t simply a feeling—it’s a practice. It’s about intentional habits that foster joy, connection, and meaning.