About Susan

Some people grow up hearing and believing they are too much. As a result, you settle into an exhaustive pattern of monitoring your own behavior, masking reactions that are “over the top,” “attention seeking,” or weird” in order to function the way people around you seem to expect. This mask makes it difficult to genuinely connect with those around you because you shape it to fit the expectations of others in order to avoid criticism. It seems impossible to figure out which parts are truly you and which parts are too heavy to keep. You don’t have to navigate this alone. There is hope.

Susan will work with you to explore the parts of your story that have taught you that masking is the only way to stay safe. She works to create a safe, warm, and non-judgmental space for clients to explore and understand their personal and relational challenges in a manner that facilitates healing. Susan believes strongly that counseling is a collaborative process between client and counselor where both parties work to create and meet goals for client change. She uses an integrative approach, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Internal Family Systems, mindfulness-based practices, and relational and attachment-informed techniques, as well as Gottman Method for couples. In this way, Susan tailors treatment to each client, so that their needs for change and healing can be met.

Susan has a Masters of Arts in Counseling from Reformed Theological Seminary. She is a Licensed Resident in Counseling (License # 0704019339) which renews on 6/30 of every year. Susan is under the supervision of Rebekah Hsieh, MA, LPC-S.

            Taking the first step toward healing takes courage—and Susan is here to support you every step of the way. Ready to feel stronger, more confident, and more like yourself? She offers a free 20-minute consultation. To schedule, contact Susan by email using the email button or by phone at 571-331-0434.

Susan offers therapeutic services at a rate of $205 for an intake session and $185 for additional sessions. Although guaranteed payment from insurance is not possible, Susan accepts Aetna, Cigna, most Virginia Anthem BCBS and Carefirst DC Capital region plans including FEPBlue, as well as out-of-state BCBS. All in-network insurance is billed through her supervisor. Should you desire out-of-network reimbursement, Susan will provide you with a statement to submit to your insurance company. 

Susan offers telehealth and in-person sessions and is currently accepting new clients.