Your Guide on the Path to Healing and Resilience

Limited License Professional Counselor, Clinical Trauma Professional, Veteran and Military Mental Health Professional, and former first responder

Samantha Terwilliger

As a former first responder, I have walked in the shoes of those I now serve. I understand firsthand the emotional toll of high-stress environments—the long shifts, the critical decisions, and the weight of witnessing trauma. I’ve lived it, and that experience fuels my commitment to supporting those who face these challenges every day.

After years of service, I found myself struggling with the same challenges many first responders face—burnout, anxiety, and the overwhelming expectation to stay strong. Through my own healing journey, I discovered the power of peer support, therapy, and mindfulness. But more importantly, I realized that mental health care for first responders needed to change.

I’m not just passionate about mental health—I’m also a devoted animal lover and outdoor enthusiast. When I’m not advocating for first responder wellness, you’ll likely find me hiking scenic trails, soaking in the peace of nature, or spending time with my beloved German Shepherd.

My four-legged companion has been a source of comfort and resilience, reminding me daily of the healing power of connection—whether with animals, nature, or a supportive community. Just as I’ve found solace in these moments, I hope to help others find their own path to balance and peace.

At Zenify, I bring that same warmth, understanding, and compassion to every person I support. Because healing isn’t just about therapy—it’s about finding joy in the little things, reconnecting with yourself, and knowing you’re never alone.

Affiliations

Samantha is proudly affiliated with the following organizations

American Counseling Association

The American Counseling Association (ACA) is dedicated to enhancing the counseling profession by promoting ethical and effective practices, advocating for mental health awareness, and supporting professional development. Their mission is to empower counselors to improve individuals’ lives through high-quality care and education.

Frontline Strong Together

Frontline Strong Together (FST5) supports Michigan’s first responders and their families by providing confidential mental health and crisis resources. A collaboration between Wayne State University and first responder organizations, FST5 offers free services to address work-related stress, trauma, and other challenges.

The Green Campaign

The Code Green Campaign® is a nonprofit organization focused on mental health advocacy and education for first responders, including firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, dispatchers, police officers, corrections officers, air medical personnel, and search and rescue teams. Their mission is to raise awareness about the high rates of mental health issues among first responders, eliminate the associated stigma, educate on self-care and peer support, and advocate for systemic changes in how agencies address mental health.

OpenPath Psychotherapy Collective

Open Path Psychotherapy Collective is a nonprofit that connects individuals to affordable mental health care. By partnering with thousands of licensed therapists, it offers therapy sessions at reduced rates, with a one-time membership fee of $65. The goal is to make therapy accessible to those without adequate insurance or financial resources.

Mindful Warrior Alliance

Our community of therapists helps military members and their spouses struggling with fertility related challenges access 6 free mental health counseling sessions as well as apply for quarterly grants to cover fertility related costs. No diagnosis needed. No paper trail. Barrier free counseling for anxiety, depression, grief, and any fertility related mental health concerns.