Susan earned her Bachelors degree in English Education from the University of Illinois and taught high school for several years. While working with students in class and in after school activities she became a confidante for them and subsequently earned a Masters in Counseling from Eastern Illinois University with certification in School Counseling K-12.
She has worked as a school counselor in the area for over 10 years, dealing with issues ranging from scheduling, collegiate plans, family conflicts and general mental health. Becoming aware of a need to connect more deeply around the latter, she became state certified LPC in 2011.
She worked at various non profits for over 10 years seeing children, adults and families with mood issues, anxiety, school and relationship issues, PTSD and the like.
Susan utilizes an eclectic approach which embraces Rogerian person centered, strength based therapy along with modes of self expression such as art and journaling. She also utilizes cognitive awareness theories such as DBT but mainly focuses on being an empathic guide.
“When the other person is hurting, confused, troubled, anxious, alienated, terrified; or when he or she is doubtful of self-worth, uncertain as to identity, then understanding is called for. The gentle and sensitive companionship of an empathic stance… provides illumination and healing. In such situations deep understanding is, I believe, the most precious gift one can give to another.” ~ Dr.Carl Rogers