Sue (Susie) Swartz , LMFT

Sue (Susie) Swartz is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in California who supports people navigating stress, anxiety, trauma, grief, depression, relationship challenges, and life transitions. She emphasizes a client-centered approach that helps individuals connect with their strengths and discover more meaningful, sustainable ways of living. Sue believes that hope is an active choice and that change becomes possible when a person decides to pursue it.

With ten years of clinical experience, Sue has worked extensively with trauma, crisis intervention, victim advocacy, and adults with severe mental health needs. She brings that background to each therapeutic relationship, listening closely to life stories and helping clients identify patterns, thoughts, and behaviors that stand in the way of feeling better. Her practice integrates evidence-based methods to address addictions, parenting and family dynamics, attachment concerns, and identity-related issues within the LGBT community.

As a therapist, Sue approaches the work with respect and presence, viewing the therapeutic relationship as the foundation for growth. She partners with clients to set goals, develop practical coping skills, and build resilience so they can move toward fuller, more authentic lives. Sue offers support tailored to the needs of each person she sees, guiding them toward clearer steps for change and long-term well-being.

Therapeutic approaches and online care

Sue (Susie) Swartz draws on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Attachment-Based Therapy alongside a client-centered stance to support clients in online sessions. ACT helps people clarify personal values and learn practical ways to move toward a meaningful life even when difficult thoughts or feelings are present - it is often helpful for anxiety, stress, and life transitions. Attachment-Based Therapy focuses on how early relationships shape current patterns, helping clients repair relational wounds and improve trust, communication, and connection in families and partnerships. Client-centered therapy provides a respectful, nonjudgmental environment that prioritizes the client's perspective and innate capacity for growth, which can be especially supportive for grief, depression, and identity concerns.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic journey, and Sue works collaboratively with each person to identify which methods fit their needs, goals, and preferences. She and the client review progress and adjust techniques together so the work feels relevant and effective.

Online appointments offer flexibility and accessibility through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging. These options allow clients to engage in therapy from their home or other convenient locations, making it easier to maintain consistent care while balancing work, family, and other responsibilities. Licensed professionals and therapists can adapt these formats to deliver thoughtful, evidence-informed support that meets clients where they are.