Susan Parker, Psychotherapist in Seattle, 98103

Susan Parker MA, LMHC

Profession(s):
Psychotherapy, Coaching, Other
License Status:
I'm a licensed professional.
Primary License:
LMHC - LH 00004324
Secondary License:
Hypnotherapist - HP 10001169

My Approach to Helping

I am fascinated with how the mind, brain and body can work together to facilitate anything! ...health, healing, business or sports performance��and especially creativity.

So much of therapy is letting go of old beliefs and being willing to embrace new ones. In order to do that I believe people need to be able build a therapeutic relationship with a trained professional where in they feel heard and safe. I blend a wide variety of techniques which I adapt individually to my clients needs. I see the therapeutic relationship as a dialogue and while I help navigate through sometimes difficult waters, you set your own course and desired outcome.

More Info About My Practice

I do not bill insurance companies directly, but many will cover much of my fee as an out of network provider. You will need to check them to determine what your policy allows.

Specific Issue(s) I'm Skilled at Helping With

Had a Negative Therapy Experience?

My first experience with therapy was negative. It took me a long time, and being in an internship during my graduate program to be willing to venture back into therapy. I am very glad that I did because first hand I learned that not all therapists are bad. I also leaned that unlike the first time, I could be a comparison shopper, get several referrals from people I did trust and ask questions. I actually interviewed three people before I felt comfortable enough to try again. Since then, because needs and perspectives do change, I've worked with several others and have been glad I did. Looking at my own experience, and who I was at the time, I think you have to really evaluate what went wrong, what you needed but didn't or couldn't get from the therapist who hurt you and then what you want this time. It is also critical, in my opinion, to test the waters for a few sessions. Not everyone is a good fit right off, sometimes it takes a few sessions to begin to feel comfortable enough to really move forward and sometimes, after a few sessions you'll know that although nice, this is not the 'right' person for you. At that time move on until you find the 'right fit'.

How My Own Struggles Made Me a Better Therapist

I've been on both sides of the couch so to speak. The patient and the therapist. I know what it feels like to face a stranger with what seems overwhelming emotionally and not know if it's even possible to 'fix'. Being hurt by my first therapist had a gold lining. It taught me first hand that regardless of the patients responsibility for their own healing, they are in a very vulnerable position. It is therefore always the therapists job to do no harm. Which is why Ive always sought outside supervision and continued to do my own personal work throughout my career.