Susan Schwerd

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Maryland. I have been practicing since 1999, when I graduated from Temple University with a Masters Degree in Counseling Psychology. I spent the first 7 years of my counseling career working in a large outpatient mental health organization, several as assistant clinical director, before entering private practice. Prior to becoming a psychotherapist, I spent 10 years as Director of Human Resources for a mid-sized corporation.

My goal is to facilitate your healing, growth, and transformation. Rooted in the psychodynamic orientation, my therapeutic approach is “active eclectic”, utilizing cognitive behavioral, Adlerian, and Solution-focused interventions. I facilitate change by helping clients understand the underlying reasons why they feel conflicted and by helping identify patterns of behavior that are keeping them stuck. Together we work to develop new, healthier ways to respond to present day challenges.

My practice focuses on supporting clients with mood disorders & chronic mental illness; anger & stress management; emotional self-regulation; trauma; chronic pain, medical illness & physical injury; grief & loss, and other difficult life transitions. My previous career in HR prepared me to “coach” clients seeking Personal Growth & Professional Productivity.

Neurofeedback, Eye Movement Integration, and Clinical Hypnosis are frequently used as adjuncts to psychotherapy in my private practice.
Online clients can learn self-hypnosis and breathing techniques, powerful tools to regulate chronic pain and anxiety, helping reclaim control over their lives.
I have also worked extensively with veterans and their families in the Washington DC area, having received special training from military organizations for non-military professionals.

I utilize Live Video & Phone sessions, & I will respond to a few messages between sessions, but I do not conduct therapy via Live Chat or messaging.

PLEASE NOTE: my SUMMER HOURS are:
Monday, Wednesday, Friday 12 noon – 6pm
Tuesday & Thursday 5, 6, 7 pm