About Suzy

I am a licensed clinical social worker and psychotherapist, providing individual and family therapy. My specialties include child/adolescent development, traumatic stress, chronic/acute stress, interpersonal difficulties, anxiety, depression, and developmental trauma.

Over the course of my career, I have worked extensively in K-12 schools, educational programs, and community based organizations. I earned a Master’s degree in International Education with a focus on Cross-Cultural Education, as well as a Master’s degree in Social Work with a focus on Integrated Behavioral Health for Adolescents, at New York University. I am currently studying at the Somatic Experiencing Training Institute.

My Approach

My approach to psychotherapy is holistically minded, trauma-responsive, and culturally sensitive, taking into special consideration how chronic stress and/or trauma impacts both psychological and physiological well-being. I fundamentally believe that people hold the innate capacity to heal and thrive, regardless of the challenges. My role is to work collaboratively with you to identify strengths, cultivate self-awareness and self-compassion, and promote self-empowerment in achieving your personal goals.

My communication style is direct, honest, and conversational. I embrace compassion, curiosity, humor and a relational approach to psychotherapy. I believe that the most effective treatment emerges from a trusting and collaborative relationship between therapist and client. I am committed to creating a safe and comfortable environment for you during our sessions.

I draw from a diverse range of modalities in my practice and tailor treatment strategies based on your interests and needs. Modalities include: somatic-based psychotherapy, relational psychodynamic therapy, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, creative arts therapy, play therapy, mindfulness practices, and Internal Family Systems therapy.

My practice is inclusive and affirming to all genders, sexual orientations, races, ethnicities, abilities, and religions.

Qualifications

Education

B.S. Journalism, Minor in East Asian Studies, Boston University

M.A. International Education Concentration in Cross-Cultural Education, New York University

M.S.W., Concentration in Integrated Behavioral Health for Adolescents, New York University

Professional Activities & Memberships

National Association of Social Workers, Member - Hawaii Chapter

Hawaii Association of Play Therapists, Member - Hawaii Chapter

Licenses, Certifications

Licensed Clinical Social Worker (Hawaii State)

Yoga Ed. Trainer's Institute