Sam Kramer

Stepping into the world of anxiety and OCD can feel like navigating a complex maze, but Dr. Sam Kramer, PhD, offers a guiding light with his personable approach and evidence-based techniques. As a specialist in treating adults and adolescents aged 16 and above, Dr. Kramer brings a wealth of experience to those grappling with repetitive thoughts, rumination, and various anxiety disorders.

Dr. Kramer's journey in clinical psychology began at Southern Illinois University – Carbondale, where he earned his Ph.D. His predoctoral internship at the Salem VA Medical Center in Virginia laid the groundwork for his specialized focus. However, it was during his postdoctoral fellowship at the Center for OCD and Anxiety-Related Disorders at Saint Louis Behavioral Medicine Institute that Dr. Kramer honed his expertise in treating anxiety at both outpatient and IOP levels of care.

With a particular passion for helping "overthinkers," Dr. Kramer excels in addressing social anxiety, generalized anxiety, panic disorder, and agoraphobia. His specialized treatment extends to adults with fears of flying, showcasing his versatility in tackling specific phobias. Dr. Kramer's approach is rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), proven methodologies in anxiety treatment.

In therapy sessions, clients can expect a relaxed yet structured environment. Dr. Kramer believes in not just teaching strategies but ensuring clients understand why these techniques work. This empowering approach aims to equip individuals with the tools to become their own therapists, fostering lifelong change. His collaborative style involves creating step-by-step paths to recovery, tailored to each client's unique goals and challenges.

Beyond his professional life, Dr. Kramer finds joy in spending time with his wife and two children, embracing the outdoors through hiking, and indulging his passion for playing guitar. This balance of professional expertise and personal interests allows him to bring a well-rounded, empathetic perspective to his practice, making him a trusted ally in the journey towards mental wellness.