Suzanne Rutkowski

As an EMDR certified therapist, my focus in therapy is to build a partnership that empowers people to take steps forward at the pace they feel comfortable. I’ve been in practice 30 years and most often work with adults struggling with anxiety, trauma, grief, burnout and other challenging life transitions to help them manage emotions more effectively. Many of my clients are helpers themselves- healthcare workers, educators, and other professionals who are working toward a better quality of life for themselves. I have special interest in helping people overcome traumatic losses, get a handle on emotional eating and improve coping due to caregiver stress.

My approach is fostered in Acceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT). I am certified in EMDR and Cognitive Processing therapy for treating trauma. I blend Internal Family Systems (IFS) into our work to help you understand how early experiences and different parts of yourself influence your emotions and behavior today. I specialize in grief counseling and have experience working in hospice and medical settings with patients and caregivers. I include a variety of trauma informed, somatic and holistic approaches in my work to treat anxiety, depression, stress management, and life changes as well as grief and trauma work.

Our initial sessions will be focused on gaining an understanding of what's happened to bring you to this point in your life, but it won't be necessary for you to share deeply about deep hurts or trauma until you feel safe and ready. We will map out a treatment plan based on what matters most to you. I welcome your input and hope you ask questions, I see therapy as your learning experience and want you to have an active role.