Professional Address

120 Convocation Way (Office 225B) Tallahassee, Florida 32306

Why I Joined Relevate

I joined RELEVATE because of my passion for both research and clinical practice. Early in my training, it was unclear how these two interests would come together, but my experiences have shaped me into the clinician and scholar I am today. I have learned so much from the mentors, colleagues, and communities around me, and I am passionate about collaborating with curious and dedicated individuals who are committed to advancing public scholarship, expanding access to evidence based resources, and translating research into meaningful impact for individuals, families, and communities.

Bio

Hi! My name is Sam Yu, and I am a PhD student in the Marriage and Family Therapy program at Florida State University. I completed both my undergraduate and master's degrees at The Ohio State University. My research focuses on emerging adulthood, intimate relationship development, sexual communication, and the social and cultural experiences that shape relationship decisions. I am passionate about making research applicable and accessible by improving mental health care, informing policy, and creating educational resources that people can use in their everyday lives. I am especially committed to expanding access to mental health care for underrepresented and underserved communities. Outside of academics, I spent seven years working as a tennis instructor, which is something I still love and try to make time for whenever I can. I enjoy staying active through hiking, fitness, and playing sports, and I thoroughly enjoy exploring new food spots and traveling.

Degrees

B.A. in Sociology, Minor in Human Development and Family Science, M.S. in Human Development and Family Science (specializing in Couple and Family Therapy), Current PhD student in Marriage and Family Therapy

Credentials

Registered Marriage and Family Therapy Intern

Professional Interests, Experience, and Expertise.

My research focuses on emerging adulthood, intimate relationship development, sexual communication, and the social and cultural factors that influence relational decision-making and relationship formation. I am also committed to expanding access to mental health care for underrepresented and underserved populations.

Organizational Affiliations

Florida State University, The Ohio State University Alumni

Relationship Type Expertise

• Family
• Friends
• Romantic
• Professional
• Community
• With Yourself

Areas Of Expertise

• Adolescents/ Teens
• Young Adults
• Career Goals & Planning
• Communication
• Connection & Intimacy
• Decision Making
• Human Development
• Isolation & Loneliness
• Long-distance Relationships
• Mental Health
• Multi-Cultural/Racial
• Personal Growth & Development
• Preventing Relationship Distress & Instability
• Relationship Development
• Relationship Interventions
• Resources & Strengths
• Self-Esteem
• Sex & Sexuality
• Social Media
• Social Skills
• Social Support
• Therapy