Counseling

Our Mission

Samford Counseling Services supports students through the transitions and challenges of college life through accessible quality therapeutic services. We are committed to providing clinical insight and thoughtful guidance to students seeking growth, healing and hope in their emotional, intellectual and spiritual development. Counseling Services provides individual and group psychotherapy, crisis counseling, referral services, consultations, and educational programs that promote the well-being of individuals and the community.

Appointments

Appointments are included in student fees at no extra cost. Late cancellations and no-shows will result in a $25 fee to your Banner account.

Schedule an Appointment

Office Hours

Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Location

Health & Wellness Center

Contact Us

counseling@samford.edu or
205-726-4083

Confidentiality

Protected health information may be disclosed without written permission in situations of imminent danger for the student or others, where it is required by court. Otherwise, given licensing standards for Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC) and Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW), protected student health information (i.e. counseling content) will only be disclosed with the student’s written permission on a Release of Information Form.

Only the student can make decisions regarding reporting to State Professional Boards or other agencies regarding their use of Counseling. When and if specific protected health information would be shared is discussed with each student during sessions.

Crisis Contact Numbers
Crisis	Off-Campus Contact	On-Campus Contact
Physical Danger	911	Campus Safety: Ext. 2020 or 205-726-2020
Rape or Sexual Assault Report	24/7 Local Crisis Center Rape Response Line – 205-323-7273	Campus Safety: Ext. 2020 or 205-726-2020 Title IX Reporting
Suicide Concern	24/7 Local Crisis Center Line – 205-232-7777 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – 1-800-273-8255	Campus Safety: Ext. 2020 or 205-726-2020 Title IX Reporting
Major Disaster		Emergency Alerts

Staff

Beth Damron , BSW, MA, ALC, NARM Therapist

University Counselor

Health and Wellness Center

edamron@samford.edu

Biography

Sabrina Lewis, MS, ALC, NCC

University Counselor

Health and Wellness Center

slewis13@samford.edu

Biography

Susie-Hannah Williams, LPC, NARM Candidate

University Counselor

Health and Wellness Center

swilli26@samford.edu

Biography

Richard Yoakum, LPC-S, NARM and CSAT Candidate

Director of Counseling Services

Health and Wellness Center

ryoakum@samford.edu

205-726-2065

Biography

Counseling Interns

Macy Cates

Macy is a Master of Social Work (MSW) student at Samford University, studying under the supervision of Rich Yoakum. Originally from Oklahoma, she moved to Birmingham over a year ago to pursue her goal of becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Macy holds a bachelor’s degree in Human Development and Family Science from the University of Georgia.

She enjoys welcoming students into her office, where each person’s presence is valued and respected. Macy strives to create a safe, supportive space for individuals to reflect on and navigate the various aspects of life that shape their experiences. As a Christian, she finds meaning in walking alongside others as they explore their faith journeys, while also honoring and supporting those from all backgrounds and belief systems.