Meet Sam Whittle
Therapy that welcomes all of you
A space that feels full of possibility.
Hi, I’m Sam
Queer Therapist + Sexuality Educator
I became a therapist because I’m passionate about creating space where people can bring both trauma and pleasure.
I got my start in the social services world over a decade ago, working with survivors of sexualized violence and assault. That early work continues to shape me, and I remain deeply committed to supporting people as they heal from all forms of sexualized or relational trauma. I know trauma can leave lasting effects, and I offer steady, compassionate support as you reclaim your life from these.
I also take pleasure, joy, and connection seriously, and I want to give you permission to do the same. For many years, I was the owner of Venus Envy, an education-oriented sex shop and bookstore. I’ve also been a sex and relationship educator for more than 15 years. Because of these experiences, I know how meaningful it can be for people to experience fully consensual, embodied, pleasure, and I make it my mission to help people have more of this. My approach is warm, collaborative, and skillful, grounded in both narrative and somatic therapies.
Outside of work, I spend most of my time parenting my two incredible kids. I love reading, baking, hiking — and I’ve never met a lake I didn’t want to jump into. Originally from Newfoundland, I bring an east coast warmth and sense of humour to my practice, and I’m often told that I make therapy feel comfortable and welcoming.
Qualifications
I regularly attend training and seek out supervision and consultation. Here are some of my qualifications, to date.
Master’s in Social Work, York University ● Registered Member of the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers ● Intensive Sex Therapy Training Program, Guelph University ● Certificate in Assessing and Treating Sex Issues in Psychotherapy, Martha Kauppi ● Certificate in Safety, Belonging and Dignity: Using the Generative Power of Somatics to Heal Trauma, Staci Haines ● Certificate from 3-year Somatic Experiencing Program to Heal Trauma ● Certifying as a Somatic Sexuality Healing Practitioner ● Trained in Narrative Therapy ● Trained in Motivational Interviewing ● Trained in Strength-Based Approaches to Therapy ● Facilitated 100s of sex and relationships workshops
My Approach to Therapy
I support individuals and couples who want to heal trauma, create meaningful relationships, or embrace pleasurable sexuality.
I work from two primary modalities, and I regularly seek out training and consultation toward the development of expertise in these methods. The modalities I use are:
-
A deeply respectful, anti-oppressive approach that helps people reshape the stories they tell about themselves and their experiences. With skillful questioning, empathy and creativity, we will collaborate on writing a new story for your life.
-
A body-centered approach that helps process trauma and regulate the nervous system, recognizing that healing happens not just in the mind, but in the body as well.
I bring empathy, humor, and warmth into the therapeutic space, helping people feel at ease. I welcome any questions about my approach so you can feel confident that I’m the right fit for you.
Finding the right fit is an important first step.
Reach out for a free consultation.