Grief counselors and therapists in Rockford, IL

Hi, I’m Suzanne. I approach this work with intention and respect. When you sit across from me—even virtually—you have my full attention. My style is direct, honest, and grounded. I won’t overreact, and I won’t minimize your experience. I believe in your capacity to grow, and at times I will challenge you—with care and purpose—to help you move forward.

You can expect steadiness, discretion, and a focus on meaningful change, not just endless processing. Therapy is an investment of your time, energy, and trust, and I take that seriously. My goal is to support you in making real, lasting progress with clarity and confidence.

Welcome! I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience supporting adults and families. I specialize in helping clients navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, and LGBTQIA+ concerns (including poly and kink relationships), as well as fostering personal growth. My approach is inquisitive, collaborative, and solutions-focused. Whether we communicate in English or ASL, I look forward to working together to help you reach your goals.

I know how overwhelming it can feel to juggle daily responsibilities while also carrying stress, worry, or old hurts that won’t quite go away. You might be feeling stuck in patterns you’re ready to change, wanting healthier relationships, or just hoping to feel more like yourself again. In our work together, we’ll move at a pace that feels safe for you while focusing on practical tools you can use in your everyday life.

I have 26 years of experience dealing with individuals, couples, families in therapy. We will work together to develop plans that are unique and right for you.

I earned a bachelor’s degree in Social Work at Colorado State University and a degree in Masters in Social Work from Metropolitan State University Denver and hold my License Clinical Social Work. I have 5+ years experience working as a school social worker. I specialize in working with children and families of all different backgrounds. Through my work, I has helped clients communicate and regulate emotions more effectively. I believe therapy is most effective when clients feel empowered and heard. Therapy continues until clients feels ready and equipped to move forward independently.

I know starting therapy can feel intimidating, especially if you’ve felt misunderstood in the past.

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience in behavioral health, and I hold a Doctor of Social Work (DSW). I specialize in childhood trauma, anxiety, burnout, and working with neurodivergent individuals, including ADHD and autism. I often support people who feel overwhelmed, stuck in survival mode, or exhausted from masking and holding everything together on their own.

My style is warm and down to earth, and I focus on meeting you where you are in each session. Therapy with me is collaborative and flexible, shaped around what works best for you. My goal is to offer a space where you feel safe, understood, and supported as you work toward meaningful change.

If you're struggling with addiction, carrying the weight of complex trauma, or trying to cope while managing a chronic health condition, I want you to know there's a way forward — and you don't have to walk it alone. I'm a Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor (CADC) with over 16 years of experience across private practice, residential substance abuse treatment, medical social work, and the non-profit world. I've sat with people in their hardest, most overwhelming moments, and I bring that same steady, non-judgmental presence to every session.

Much of my work centers on substance use and recovery, complex trauma, and the emotional toll of chronic medical conditions. Whether you're in the thick of a crisis or finally ready to address something you've carried for years, I'll meet you exactly where you are — with compassion, real tools, and zero judgment.

I’m an Army veteran and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who is passionate about helping people feel understood, supported, and empowered. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Science from National Louis University in 2013 and my master’s degree in Social Work from Aurora University, earning my LSW in 2024 and LCSW in 2025. My experience includes working with veterans, children, teens, young adults, couples, and families across the Department of Veterans Affairs, Volunteers of America Illinois, residential treatment, and dual-diagnosis settings. I support clients navigating trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship challenges, and life transitions, including individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community.