Meet a Therapist in Alberta: Samantha Kerr

Get to know Samantha Kerr, a relationship therapist and Registered Clinical Social Worker, in this interview from our Meet a Therapist in Alberta series. Sam shares how a billboard changed her career, why she believes we're bonding mammals, and what she'd tell someone who's nervous to start therapy.

Who are you?

That's a tough question to answer. I'm an ever-evolving human being on this planet.

I've taken on many roles throughout my life: daughter, sister, partner, mother, friend, learner, observer, nurturer, yogi, and therapist, to name a few.

What led you to become a social worker?

I first went to school for architectural technologies, and worked in that field for a few years, unhappily.

I was laid off in 2008, which was really a blessing in disguise. I was floundering, trying to find purpose, when I came across a billboard for the Distress Centre. I was intrigued. I interviewed, and a few weeks later I became a crisis line volunteer.

Talking with people going through mental health struggles, crisis, loss, loneliness, and real life changed my life and how I saw myself, almost instantly. From there, I applied to the social work program and never looked back, except to reflect.

Deep down, I always knew I'd be in a helping profession of some kind. It just took a detour to get there.

What is your life philosophy?

We are bonding mammals. We need people.

We need human connection to survive and thrive. Our nervous systems are designed to need and crave connection. People are inherently good, and doing the best they can with what they have and what they know.

Do you ever get overwhelmed by the stuff people tell you?

I don't know if I get overwhelmed. I'm profoundly touched and moved by people's stories.

I feel deep sadness, shock, anger, and confusion about the suffering so many people experience. I'm astounded by people's strength and resilience. I also feel overwhelming gratitude and privilege to be able to do this work. So I guess I do get overwhelmed!

How do you handle being a therapist?

I love this work. It's my true passion, and the human connections I've made through it humble me every day.

I have to look after myself very deliberately. I tune into my thoughts, my emotions, and my body. I take time to be still and silent, and I take time to laugh and be silly.

What makes your job fulfilling?

Too many things to mention!

I'm humbled and astounded by how strong and resilient people are. The warmth and connection that's so often felt in the therapy room motivates me to keep doing this work, and to keep getting better at it.

What would you tell someone who's nervous to start therapy?

Of course you are. I was too.

Going to therapy is bold and brave.

What are some obstacles you've overcome?

Trauma, heartbreak, postpartum depression and anxiety, and health issues.

What are your hobbies?

Mountain biking, yoga, fitness, movies, cooking, travelling, playing with my daughter, and arts and crafts.

What do you like to do in your free time?

Anything outside, and anything where I can laugh or rest.

What's the best advice you've ever received?

It doesn't matter what others think of you. It really only matters what you think of yourself.

Do you have kids?

I have one daughter.

What's your favourite show?

Sex and the City.

Right now, I'm watching reruns of Jim Gaffigan's stand-up comedy.

What's your favourite book?

The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger, and The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk.

Right now, I'm reading Charlie and the Chocolate Factory with my daughter.

Cats, dogs, or other?

Either!

What did you want to be when you were 10?

An actor.

What's your favourite quote?

From Carl Rogers: The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.

Indoors or outdoors?

There's a time and a place for both, but I love the outdoors.

What's your favourite food?

I make a lemon shrimp linguine that is amazing.

What's your wish for your clients?

That they realize how strong and resilient they really are.

Relationship Therapy in Alberta

If your relationship has been feeling strained or disconnected, reaching out for support can help.

Relationship therapy offers a space to understand the patterns between you and find your way back to each other. A therapist can help you both feel safer, more connected, and more understood.

You don't have to figure it out alone.

This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy, medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

If you or someone you care about is in crisis or at risk of harm, please get help now. Call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department. You can also call or text 988 any time for suicide and crisis support. For more options, see our crisis support page.

About Samantha

Samantha Kerr is a relationship therapist and Registered Clinical Social Worker with a Master of Social Work from the University of Calgary. She has 15 years of experience in mental health, including private practice and work with the Distress Centre and Alberta Health Services. Sam has extensive training in emotionally focused therapy and is passionate about helping individuals and couples create healthy relationships.