SAM WALLNER, MA, NCC

 
 

I am a pre-licensed professional counselor working under the supervision of Dr. Lori Evenson. I graduated from South Dakota State University in 2012 with a BA in Graphic Design, and minors in Art and Journalism. I worked in the marketing/advertising field for eight years before pursuing graduate school in 2020. I earned my MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of South Dakota in 2023. I am a Nationally Certified Counselor and am currently working towards licensure in the state of South Dakota.

I specialize in women’s mental health and well-being, with a special focus on women’s sexuality, body image, and shame.  I help women realize that negative external messages are not reality:  women deserve to recognize their sexual needs and desires, a positive body image, and to be free from sexual or body shaming.  I work on the issues that arise from negative social and internalized messages, including eating disorders and body dysmorphia.  I work with women to reclaim their sense of self, emotionally and physically, and create fulfilling, mentally healthy lives.

I also specialize in relationship therapy and am completing training in the Gottman method for couples.  I work with couples in distress related to communication, conflict, or infidelity.  I help couples build healthy relationships with authentic communication that foster trust, empathy, and intimacy.   

 
 

  • During my counselor training, I worked with undergraduate and graduate students to explore a variety of topics such as anxiety, depression, relationships, and identity development. I interned at a local agency that specializes in issues such as domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and human trafficking. I also co-facilitated groups. There I gained experience with trauma, coping skills, and safety planning.

  • MA, Clinical Mental Health Counseling

    Licensed Professional Counselor - Supervisee

    National Certified Counselor (NCC)

    American Counseling Association (ACA) member

  • MA, Clinical Mental Health Counseling – University of South Dakota

    BA, Graphic Design – South Dakota State University