MORE ABOUT ME

You are taking the first step towards a happier and more fulfilling life ahead. Together we will work through the issues and problems that are holding you back. My approach to therapy is warm and genuine. I seek to truly understand what you’re going through, from your perspective and without negative judgment. If there are changes you want to make in your life, I will help you identify any obstacles, overcome feelings of hesitation, and create a realistic plan to achieve success. If you are hoping to better understand yourself and develop insight into why you do the things you do, I will help navigate you through that process and develop helpful new insights about yourself.

My Approach to Therapy

I incorporate aspects of several therapeutic treatment styles. Here's a basic overview of what this would look like in therapy:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is used to help you identify and challenge any negative thought patterns or behaviors that might be contributing to your difficulties. By working together, we can replace them with more positive and adaptive thoughts and actions.
  • Motivational Interviewing (MI) focuses on exploring and resolving any ambivalence or uncertainty you may have about making changes in your life. Through empathetic listening and collaborative goal-setting, I will help enhance your motivation and support you in making positive changes that align with your values and goals.
  • Psychodynamic therapy techniques will explore your unconscious processes and early-life experiences to gain deeper insight into any underlying conflicts or patterns that might be influencing your emotions, behaviors, and relationships. This exploration can bring about a greater understanding of yourself to help you make meaningful changes.
  • I also incorporate elements of Existentialism into our therapy. This approach focuses on exploring the fundamental questions and challenges of human existence, such as finding meaning and purpose in life, making difficult choices, and confronting existential anxiety. This can help you develop a clearer sense of your values and priorities, leading to a more fulfilling and authentic life.
  • A Person-Centered approach is also an important aspect of my therapeutic style. This emphasizes empathy, unconditional positive regard, and genuineness. It creates a supportive and non-judgmental therapeutic environment where you can feel safe, understood, and valued. We will work together to facilitate your self-discovery, personal growth, and self-acceptance.
  • In addition, I draw upon the research literature to inform my work and incorporate evidence-based practices. I may use other approaches as needed, such as trauma-focused work and consideration of holistic factors such as health and wellness.
By integrating these various styles and approaches, I can address different aspects of your concerns, ranging from cognitive and behavioral patterns to motivational factors, unconscious processes, existential dilemmas, and fostering a supportive therapeutic relationship. My goal is to provide you with a therapy experience that promotes your well-being and empowers you to make positive changes in your life.

Issues I Can Help You With

  • Depression and other Mood Disorders. Grief and loss.
  • Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Trauma, Fears and Phobias, OCD.
  • Women's Issues such as motherhood, pregnancy, infertility, miscarriage, menopause and aging, body image issues, balancing career and family, improving self-care and coping with stress, relationship problems, sexual abuse.
  • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in adults. Assessment, diagnosis, and managing symptoms.
  • Emotional Abuse and Narcissistic Relationships. Healing from the trauma-bonds and emotional wounds of narcissistic relationships. Rebuilding your sense of identity, confidence, and developing better boundaries to protect yourself.
  • Problems with Alcohol, Substance Abuse and Drug Addiction. Uncovering the reasons why you self-medicate with alcohol and/or drugs. Developing a plan for your recovery to get and stay sober.
  • And more.
Issues I Do Not Treat
In order to make sure that you find the right therapist for your concerns, please review the following list of issues I cannot help you with. Please understand that these are areas where I do not have the adequate training, resources, or comfortability to provide the appropriate level of care. If you see your concern on this list, please don't give up on finding the right therapist for you.
  • Schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders.
  • Alzheimer's or other significant brain impairment.
  • Individuals with violent urges or suicidal intent (please go to the hospital or call 911).
  • Sexual deviancy such as pedophilia, sexual violence, or abuse of animals.
  • Severe drug or alcohol addiction requiring medical intervention (i.e. in a hospital or addiction treatment center).
  • Severe eating disorders requiring medical intervention (i.e. in a hospital or eating disorder clinic)
  • Couples therapy or family counseling.
  • Young children (because they usually need in-person therapy).
  • Court-ordered therapy or therapy intended for legal purposes (e.g. child custody, lawsuits, etc).
  • Those seeking a letter from a therapist or a document filled out (e.g. for an emotional support animal, time off work, disability forms, etc). These things may be provided to established patients who are committed to therapy, but are not offered as a stand-alone service.
  • Those seeking an ADHD diagnosis solely for the purpose of getting medication. Again, this is reserved for clients committed to therapy and not as a stand-alone service.

Educational Background

  • Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) degree from CLU 2017.
  • Master of Science (M.S.) degree in Clinical Psychology from CLU 2012.
  • Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Psychology from UCSD 2008.

Professional Experience

  • Private practice since Dec. 2018.
  • School-based mental health for children in TK-8th grades.
  • County Mental Health at a Juvenile Justice Center.
  • Drug and alcohol counseling at an addiction treatment center.
  • Residential counselor in a boys group home.


Susie King, Psy.D.

License: Psychologist #PSY 30584