Dr. Samantha Maguire

Hi, I’m Dr. Samantha Maguire. I’m a licensed psychologist who works with children, adolescents, and young adults through age 21. My goal is to create a space where clients feel comfortable being themselves, feel understood, and can work toward meaningful changes at their own pace.

I support clients navigating a range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, stress, self-esteem, relationships, and life transitions. I understand that life can feel overwhelming at times, and that making sense of your emotions or figuring out how to move forward isn't always easy.

I take the time to understand each person’s unique experiences, strengths, and needs. I also value collaboration with parents and caregivers when appropriate, recognizing the important role supportive relationships can play in a young person's well-being.

Through Cuda Counseling, I offer in-person sessions at our Herkimer office and telehealth throughout New York. Whether you’re seeking support for yourself or your child, my hope is to help you feel heard, build on your strengths, and develop tools that make everyday life feel more manageable.

My approach to therapy is warm, collaborative, and tailored to each person’s needs. I draw primarily from evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and behavioral strategies, while recognizing that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to mental health. I want therapy to feel like a partnership where you feel comfortable sharing your experiences, exploring challenges, and working toward goals that matter to you.

I adapt sessions to each client’s age, personality, and interests. With younger children, this may involve play, games, and hands-on activities to help them express themselves and practice new skills. With adolescents and young adults, sessions often focus on conversation, understanding patterns, building coping strategies, and navigating relationships, stress, and personal growth.

Above all, I strive to create a supportive, nonjudgmental environment where clients feel respected and understood. My goal is to help each person build self-awareness, develop practical tools, and feel more confident navigating life’s challenges.

The first session is an opportunity for us to get to know one another, talk about what brings you to therapy, and begin identifying what you would like to work toward. We’ll discuss current concerns, personal strengths, relevant history, and what you hope will feel different with support. I’ll also explain what to expect from therapy, including confidentiality and how parents or caregivers may be involved when working with younger clients.

For children and younger adolescents, I may spend part of the session speaking with parents or caregivers and part of the time getting to know the child, depending on their age and needs. For older adolescents and young adults, we can discuss what feels most comfortable and how to make sessions a space where they can speak openly.

You don’t need to have everything figured out before coming in, and there’s no pressure to share everything at once. We’ll take time to build comfort and trust, identify initial goals, and consider next steps together. My priority is for you to feel supported and have a clear sense of how we can work together as you begin your therapy journey.