meet susan close

susan’s credentials and philosophy

licensed clinical practicing counselor  (lcpc) - clinical license - 180.013294 - Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) - Indiana Clinical License: 39004631A - pronouns (she/her/hers) - english - individuals & couples

My therapeutic style is warm, direct, and focused on building a strong connection with my clients. Through this approach, I strive to create a safe space where individuals can explore their challenges and work towards growth and healing. I firmly believe in using evidence-based practices to address a wide range of  conditions effectively. I incorporate alternative treatments, such as the use of psychedelics.

Collaboration is at the heart of my work, and I find it especially important when supporting individuals with histories of trauma. By collaborating with my clients and recognizing their strengths and values, I help empower them to take an active role in their own healing process, fostering a sense of agency and resilience. In my work with couples, I specialize in utilizing The Gottman Method, a proven approach that fosters closeness and a deeper understanding between partners. This method incorporates evidence-based techniques and skill-building to enrich emotional connections and communication within the relationship,

What sets me apart from other therapists is my ability to infuse humor into the healing process when appropriate. I've found that incorporating humor and creativity in treatment not only creates a warm and engaging atmosphere but also empowers individuals to embrace imperfections and build resilience simultaneously. 

I would be honored to join you on your journey of self-discovery, growth, and healing where you can begin to embrace your uniqueness and flourish in the face of life’s challenges.

Some of my intersecting identities are:

white cisgender female - raised catholic - mother of two - an avid reader - improv enthusiast - lgbtqia+ ally & advocate - Emotional Support Human to a Bernedoodle - Extrovert (aka: Expert conversationalist) - small town Indiana girl

specialization

susan’s areas of focus:

trauma - substance use - shame recovery-grief and loss- anxiety and depression - communication in couples - TRANSITION TO PARENTHOOD bipolar disorder - ADHD

susan’s approach:

Cognitive behavioral therapy  (cbt) - eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) dialectical behavioral therapy (dbt) - Gottman Method - trauma informed - Improv therapy - ketamine assisted therapy

education

George Washington University

master of arts in education and human development - specialization in clinical counseling and school counseling

EMDR Institute 2023

Basic EMDR training 

Improv Therapy Group 2021

Advanced Level 

contact

susan@balancepsychotherapy.com