Susan Toohey
You have made a good decision for yourself by coming to Grow Therapy. I am an empathetic and responsible individual with varied experience professionally and personally. I've been in your shoes. Maybe you feel stuck in an emotional or physical battle that seems to go on forever. Or maybe in a life transition getting divorced, moving to a new city, or wanting a different career path. Or perhaps you need insight into your own life to make changes. Whatever it is, you took a bold and positive step to seek assistance. I have been a university professor, high school teacher, an audit executive and now a psychotherapist. I am curious about people, cultures, other places and have interacted my whole career with diverse populations, lived in large cities, lived in Germany, in Nevada, Arizona and currently in Florida. My home is Pennsylvania. I enjoy people, being in nature, visiting museums and art galleries. I have traveled extensively in Europe, Asia, the Soviet Union, Latin America and much of the United States. I enjoy people and learning about others. I have a great appreciation for living in America and I enjoy other cultures. I genuinely like people and appreciate our uniqueness as individuals.
First session
Our first session is different then a regular therapy session. I need to learn about who you are, what you hope to accomplish, background on your life now and in the past. I'll ask about illnesses, medications and family history just as other healthcare professionals do on the first visit. I always think it's important to get to know about you and a connection from the very start.
Strengths
My goal is to help you feel better as soon as possible and equipped to resume your life with confidence. I always make an effort to get to know you. I appreciate learning about you and your interests. I would describe my approach as person centered. I am compassionate and when appropriate serious. I will always be honest with you and tailor our session to meet your nee. I need to establish trust from the first session and never have you feel uncomfortable when we're together. I have a good sense of humor and I'm curious. I am a dog lover. I've had 4 dachshunds and 5 golden retrievers to date. They've been important in my life. One of my golden retrievers did therapy with many of my cancer patients. My prior clients mostly reached their goals for therapy and have often checked in with me years later to share something with me.
Ideal clients
I have worked with college students, young professionals, individual dealing with grief, chronic illness like cancer, trauma issues, individuals wanting to feel more hope and joy in life, individuals who want to change careers, take care of someone in the family. I I do therapy with individuals 18 and older.The most important thing in therapy is accepting where you are and where you want to be. Also, therapy is a big and important investment of your time. We will work together to work toward your future.
Treatment methods
EMDR
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing is a best practice for treating trauma. I have used it extensively with individuals since 2009 and I was trained by the EMDR Institute. I have used it with emotional or physical abuse, cancer patients, abandonment, codependency, addiction, divorce and other issues.
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
This therapy is future -directed. One starts with the present, redefines most important values and sets realistic goals for making changes. It is good for trying to get on track with an issue in your life.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
Learning to be mindful is good way to center oneself whether you're using it for EMDR, ACT or just trying to feel present in the moment. It can be empowering and relaxing.
Location
Virtual sessions
Identifies as
Top specialties
Other specialties
Serves
Doesn't specialize in
Licensed in
- ArizonaLicense LPC-15442
- FloridaLicense MH24733
- PennsylvaniaLicense PC005116