Suzanne Stokes
I am honored to join patients where they are at on their journey. I focus on setting positive goals which can often help define the problem. I know the courage it takes to come to therapy, so I work to establish comfort by being in a receptive state myself. Then, of course, the therapeutic work will follow. I utilize a warm, relaxed style with fierce reflection or gentle support as needed. I believe that everyone benefits from a therapeutic experience to attain the best version of themselves.
I have worked as a Mental Health Therapist for well, close to 40 years years (can't believe it!), and I love my work as much today as the day I started.
Some of the modalities that I frequently utilize are: Solution- Focused therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psycho-education, Systems Theory, Emotion Focused Therapy, Behavioral Modification, Skills training and Motivational interviewing/coaching.
First session
To me, the first session is one of the most, if not the most important session. I call it "Meet and Greet" to lighten the tone. In reality there is a lot to accomplish. This is when we will each decide if we connect. You must feel I am someone you can speak openly with about personal topics. You must feel that I can handle the situations you are bringing to the table and I must know professionally that I can. I will have lots of questions about what has brought you to therapy. We will briefly set up a course of action and I will give you a goal setting exercise to do before our next meeting. This is a session that is full of potential.
Strengths
I use humor, sincerity, and a big magnifying glass. The magnifying glass has always been there-it "came with". Humor sometimes helps when reality just won't budge. Then comes the sincerity and warmth which also are a seemingly natural part of me and of you. Additionally I have studied and put into practice several different modalities.
Ideal clients
Couples, individuals, motivated adolescents, college students, individuals in transition, creative people of all kinds, 's women's issues, Men's Issues, Jungian analysis, Dream interpretation, art therapy(creative expression). Light hypnosis or Trance work.
Treatment methods
Solution-Focused Brief Treatment
It’s difficult to narrow my work to one model,still Solution-focused Therapy has been profound for both my clients and myself. I came to realize I was somehow more problem focused. This therapy encourages one to see the positive, the steps, no matter how small, toward the well formed, desired outcome. Another aspect I enjoy about this model is it has enhanced a most important outcome which is good for individuals, families, and couples- self acceptance. To truly love and accept oneself is an ultimate goal which improves the relationship to self and other.
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
This therapy teaches ways to manage thoughts with more flexibility and ways to get a handle on your emotions and discover new ways to respond. That is a mouthful and may sound lofty, still it works!
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
This treatment is in some ways opposite to how we practiced when I first began, and yet it so fits these times. I find it leaves the patient with a strong set of skills they can carry with them and apply to daily life in difficult and average times. I generally like to see this as a skill to be woven in with other modalities for a stronger "Toolbox". You will be able to see how your thoughts, feelings, and body sensations interact and can be on your side all of the time.
Location
Virtual sessions
Identifies as
Top specialties
Other specialties
Serves
Licensed in
- FloridaLicense MH2685