New to Grow
Hi, I’m Sue Shannon. With over 25 years of experience as an outpatient therapist, I’ve had the privilege of supporting both children and adults through a vast and diverse range of life’s challenges. My approach is rooted in the belief that therapy should be as practical as it is supportive. I’m committed to creating a goal-focused environment where you aren't just heard and understood, but where we work together to build a clear, actionable plan for the future. Whether you're navigating a long-standing hurdle or a new life transition, I bring two decades of insight to help you find your footing and move forward.
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
The first time we meet isn't just about paperwork; it’s about momentum. While I do need to get to know your history, I believe your time is valuable. Here is how we’ll spend our first 50 minutes together. Instead of wading through small talk, we’ll get right to the heart of what brought you through the door. We will identify the major concerning problems that are impacting your life right now. I don’t want you leaving the office feeling like you just "vented." With your help, we will: Set Clear Goals: Define exactly what "better" looks like for you. Establish a Plan: Outline the specific steps and strategies we will use to tackle your concerns. You are the expert on your own life. My role is to provide the tools and the clinical perspective, but we work as a team. By the end of this session, the goal is for you to feel a sense of relief and direction.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
In the world of therapy, it’s easy to get tucked into a single niche. However, I believe that human problems are rarely "neat" or isolated. What makes my practice unique is the breadth of my perspective. I come to our sessions with a background that spans a wide range of environments and challenges. Because I’ve navigated various professional and clinical landscapes, I don’t rely on a "cookie-cutter" manual. I draw from a deep well of diverse experiences to find the specific insight that fits your unique situation. Having addressed a vast array of concerns throughout my career, I am rarely surprised. This "big picture" experience allows me to: Connect the dots between different areas of your life that might seem unrelated. Anticipate roadblocks before they stall your progress. Bring creative solutions to the table that a more narrow focus might overlook. I don't just offer theory; I offer grounded, practical support. I bring the wisdom of my past work directly into our current conversations, ensuring that our plan is backed by a history of seeing what actually works in the real world.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
My ideal clients are individuals who are genuinely ready to make a change in their lives—whether that change feels big or small. You may be feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply aware that something isn’t working the way it used to, and you’re open to exploring new ways forward. I work well with people who are motivated to engage in the therapeutic process and are willing to reflect, learn, and try new strategies outside of sessions. My approach is collaborative and focused, and I strive to help you make meaningful progress at a pace that feels manageable and empowering. I also intentionally keep my caseload small so I can give each client the time, attention, and care they deserve. This allows me to be fully present and thoughtful in guiding you toward the changes you’re seeking, while providing consistent support along the way.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
As a cognitive behavioral therapist, I focus on helping you understand the connection between your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Together, we’ll identify patterns that may be holding you back and develop practical strategies you can use in your daily life to create meaningful, lasting change.