Knowing when it is time to seek counseling takes wisdom and courage. I fully respect and appreciate the place my clients are coming from and admire their decision to improve their life situation.
I am a NYS licensed Mental Health Counselor and have a post-masters advanced certificate in Mental Health Counseling. After 25 years I remain passionate in my desire to assist you in finding hope in the midst of difficulties and how to reach your desired life goals. I am told frequently that I am very easy to connect with. During the counseling process I offer compassion, encouragement, new tools and insight with a non-judgmental stance.
I provide therapy to children, youth, individuals, couples, and families. Often people come to me with anxiety, depression, trauma histories, behavioral problems, relationship problems, parenting challenges, difficulty with managing stress, or religious or spiritual concerns. I also have experience and training working with those coping with developmental/intellectual disabilities. I am a provider for those who receive waiver services through the NYS (OPWDD) Office for People with Developmental Disabilities services via contract with Presence Developmental Services.
Each person, couple or relationship I´ve worked with arrives with concerns as unique as each individual. My belief is that there is no one ready-made therapeutic approach that works for everyone. The common thread among all, however, is the belief that obstacles stand in the way of an improved life. The specific therapeutic approach depends upon the concerns and needs of each individual, couple or family. My focus is always to acknowledge existing strengths, supports, values, personal choice, and past solutions. Together, we immediately begin to transform negative thoughts, emotions and behaviors to create desired changes. Uncertainty is ok along the way. I will patiently and non-judgmentally listen to your concerns. Often symptom reduction is an initial goal with the hope of uncovering root causes that have hindered you and contributed to the challenges you face. Our work together can be a time and space for you to talk about current challenges, past history, feelings, disconnection with others or relationship challenges. I have a unique ability to zero in on core issues. My office is a safe place to unfold your story. I am results oriented and ensure that insight and skills that you have learned in sessions will be transferred into your day to day life. If you desire changes in your life I am here to assist you!
I have specialized experience treating alcohol and substance abuse, individuals with dual diagnoses, mood disorders, anxiety, repetative behaviors, OCD, behavior problems, trauma histories, and medical diagnoses and treating those with developmental/intellectual disabilities. My diverse experience includes working in the judicial system, outpatient, inpatient rehabilitation, substance abuse, school systems, and medical settings.
Please contact me for an appointment or free 15 minute phone consultation.
Pastoral Counseling and Family Therapy
Susan de Navarrete heads up this division of Great Lakes Counseling.
Susan is a licensed, seasoned clinician with experience working with a vast array of issues, including family discord or marital issues, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicidal potential and substance abuse issues. She welcomes anyone to call and chat, to consider her practice as a possible starting point for a new life experience.
Susan has expertise in marital/family therapy, individual and group therapy, substance abuse, transcultural issues, PTSD, gerontology, and CISM (Critical Incident Stress Management). She is an affirming therapist and welcomes all to her practice.
Susan has over 40 years of experience in the field and has practiced in several areas of the country. This affords her a more global perspective, as well as a willingness to learn from her clients and be open to their personal approach and need for growth and change. She offers Saturday hours for your convenience.
Please contact her via e-mail or telephone.
Professional Associations:
American Assoc. of Marriage/Family Therapist
International Family Therapy Assoc.
NY Assoc. of Marriage/Family Therapists
National Certification Reciprocity Consortium
American Counseling Assoc.
(585) 314-9006 | lmcbc2016@gmail.com