Susan Breskman

Hello, my name is Susan Breskman, LCSW. I am a licensed clinical social worker with nearly 20 years of experience providing therapy to children, adolescents, adults, and families. Throughout my career, I have worked with people navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, life transitions, relationship challenges, stress, and questions about identity, purpose, and belonging.

I view therapy as a collaborative journey. I do not believe that healing comes from someone else "fixing" us. Rather, I see therapy as a space where people can reconnect with their own wisdom, strengths, values, and lived experiences. I strive to approach each person without judgment. I recognize that every individual is shaped by unique experiences, relationships, cultures, communities, journeys and stories. I believe stories have the power to heal. The stories we inherit, the stories we tell ourselves, and the stories that others tell about us can all influence how we see ourselves and what we believe is possible. Therapy can be a space to reflect on those stories, identify the ones that support growth and well-being, and create room for new possibilities. I believe healing often happens when people feel seen, heard, and empowered.

I value the concept of the middle path—the idea that multiple truths can exist at the same time. Life is often more complex than right or wrong, strong or weak, success or failure. Together, we can explore that complexity with compassion and openness while making space for both acceptance and change.

I utilize evidence-based approaches, including dialectical behavior therapy-informed skills, mindfulness-based techniques, and trauma-informed care.

Whether you are facing a specific challenge or seeking a space for reflection and growth, I look forward to walking alongside you as you continue your journey and discover what healing, resilience, and meaning look like in your own life.

My approach to therapy is collaborative, curious, and strengths-based. I strive to create a space where people feel respected, heard, and accepted without judgment. I view therapy as a partnership and believe that each person is the expert on their own life. Rather than telling people what they should do, I work alongside them to explore their experiences, identify their strengths, and discover what feels meaningful and effective for them.

I am influenced by dialectical behavior therapy and the concept of the middle path. I believe that seemingly opposite truths can often exist at the same time, and I help people move away from all-or-nothing thinking while making room for both acceptance and change. I also incorporate cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness practices, trauma-informed care, and other evidence-based approaches based on each person's needs and goals.

I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families who are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship challenges, life transitions, emotional regulation difficulties, and stress. I also enjoy helping people explore patterns in relationships, strengthen self-understanding, and develop practical skills for coping with life's challenges.

Stories are important to my work. I believe the stories we tell about ourselves and our experiences can shape how we see the world and what we believe is possible. Therapy can provide an opportunity to reflect on those stories, recognize resilience that may have been overlooked, and create space for new perspectives and possibilities.

Above all, I strive to be a compassionate companion in the therapeutic process—someone who approaches each person with curiosity, humility, and respect for their unique journey.

During the first session, clients can expect a conversation focused on getting to know one another and beginning to build a comfortable therapeutic relationship. I understand that starting therapy can feel vulnerable, so I strive to create a welcoming, nonjudgmental environment where people can share at their own pace.

We will talk about what brings you to therapy, the challenges you are facing, your strengths, and what you hope to gain from our work together. I may ask questions about your history, relationships, support system, and previous experiences with therapy to better understand your story and the context of your experiences.

The first session is also an opportunity for you to ask questions and get a sense of whether I am a good fit for your needs. Therapy is a collaborative process, and I believe it is important that you feel comfortable and respected in our work together.

By the end of the session, we will begin identifying goals for therapy and discussing what you would like to focus on moving forward. My hope is that you leave with a sense of being heard, understood, and supported as we begin this journey together.