Family therapy and counseling in Rockford, IL

Hello Fellow Human,

I am a sex and relationship therapist with a focus on BDSM and kink. Clients have found that my approach being direct with care and affirming have aided in reaching their goals. I believe that connection with others can lead to healing and use a collaborative approach.

Starting therapy can feel vulnerable, if you are feeling stuck and don't know where to begin, I can help you find the way. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe, understood, and comfortable being yourself. My clients often describe me as warm, down-to-earth, and easy to talk to — someone they can open up to without feeling judged or rushed. I have a strong passion for supporting my clients in the way they need and desire to be supported. I have a deep personal and professional understanding of the human mind and the struggles of life. I genuinely care about my clients and their wellbeing.

Hi, I’m Suzanne. I approach this work with intention and respect. When you sit across from me—even virtually—you have my full attention. My style is direct, honest, and grounded. I won’t overreact, and I won’t minimize your experience. I believe in your capacity to grow, and at times I will challenge you—with care and purpose—to help you move forward.

You can expect steadiness, discretion, and a focus on meaningful change, not just endless processing. Therapy is an investment of your time, energy, and trust, and I take that seriously. My goal is to support you in making real, lasting progress with clarity and confidence.

I have provided counseling services for over 20 years, helping clients work through trauma, PTSD, anxiety, panic, stress, family challenges, and women’s issues. I specialize in supporting people who feel stuck in painful memories, overwhelmed by anxiety, or disconnected from themselves after difficult life experiences. My approach is compassionate, non-judgmental, and deeply respectful of each person’s story. I believe healing often involves more than traditional talk therapy, which is why I incorporate approaches that support the mind, body, and spirit. I am an EMDRIA Certified Therapist and a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, and I use EMDR, somatic therapy, attachment-based therapy, interpersonal therapy, and other trauma-informed approaches to help clients move toward relief and healing. When we work together, you can expect a caring space where you are accepted as you are and supported at a pace that feels safe.

I support clients through a warm, attuned, and relationship‐centered approach. My intention is to be collaborative, helpful, and grounded in trust‐based, relational work. If you’re ready for a space where your story is honored, I'm here. We can struggle in how we connect, trust, and regulate our emotions throughout life, influencing our levels of anxiety, depression, and overall ability to manage mood. I have worked with persons with disabilities, children, adults, and families to help find balance.

I have been practicing in the field of mental health for twelve years after receiving a Master of Social Work from University of Saint Francis. My hope is to help you navigate through the various stressors that are bringing you into therapy, in a warm, safe, confidential space. I want to help you understand what is maintaining your negative feelings and behaviors and find ways to work through them in a way that allows you to live your life to the fullest.