Susan Dawson
Hi, I’m Susan—a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Certified Addictions Professional, and Substance Abuse Professional. I hold a master’s in Counseling Psychology from the University of West Florida and have been working in the mental health and substance abuse field since 2009 (licensed since 2012). My approach is grounded in empathy, active listening, and real partnership. I work as hard as you do to help you return to your best self. I believe lasting change happens between sessions—so I give you practical tools and support, but the real healing comes from what you do with them.
I’ve worked in private practice, addiction clinics, homeless veteran services, military family counseling, and the county jail.
I’ve worked in private practice, addiction clinics, homeless veteran services, military family counseling, and the county jail. Outside of work, I enjoy walking, biking, swimming, travel, cooking, gardening, and time with loved ones.
First session
During your first session, we’ll focus on building a trusting, supportive therapeutic relationship. You won’t be judged, and you won’t be expected to share your deepest fears or hopes on day one. My role is to give you the space to share those things when you're ready—and to believe that what you tell me is what you genuinely want to work on. That said, honesty is essential. If you're not fully truthful, we’ll gently explore that together. I ask that you come openly so we don't spend valuable time untangling untruths—because your growth is too important to waste.
Strengths
My greatest strength might also be why some clients decide I'm not the right fit for them. There's a reason my practice is called Reality Check Therapeutic Services. I don't offer a soft, gentle, nurturing voice—I offer real, raw, and respectful honesty. I will answer your questions directly and truthfully, even if it's not what you want to hear. I won't tell you what I think you're hoping for if I believe something else is in your best interest. My motto is: "Real Talk, Real Work, Real Help." Are you ready for it?
Ideal clients
My dream clients are those who are open to working outside their comfort zone and willing to complete whatever weekly assignment(s) they agreed to during our previous session. They speak openly and honestly, without fear of judgment. The ideal client shares with me what worked and what didn’t from the exercises they completed since we last met. I work in beautiful downtown Pensacola, and I especially love clients who are open to walking sessions.
Treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I believe we can sit together for an hour or so on a regular basis, and you’ll leave the office feeling a little lighter than when you arrived. But that alone isn’t therapy—that’s the relief of sharing your challenges with an open ear. Therapy is the work you do outside of our sessions, using the tools offered to you in the midst of our conversations. I’m a big believer in homework—no, lifework—because the assignments I offer are designed to help you move toward the goals that brought you to seek counseling. I will work as hard as you do to support your growth.
Location
Virtual sessions
In-person sessions321 N De Villiers St, Pensacola, FL 32501, Suite 209
Identifies as
Top specialties
Other specialties
Doesn't specialize in
Licensed in
- FloridaLicense MH11067