Sheet 1
- LGBT issues
- Grief and loss
- Self-esteem work
About Susan
LCSW licensed in Illinois with 15 years of clinical experience, Susan Bowes focuses on LGBT issues, grief, self-esteem, coping with life changes, and compassion fatigue. She helps people who are managing difficult emotions after loss, wrestling with questions of identity, or trying to rebuild confidence. Sessions use straightforward conversation and practical coping strategies.
Susan keeps sessions direct and easy to follow. She listens for what matters most and helps clients name clear next steps. Work may include problem-solving, practicing ways to manage distress, and setting small goals that fit daily life.
She also supports people dealing with chronic pain, illness, or disability. In those cases she pays attention to how physical health affects mood and daily routines. The aim is to find realistic ways to preserve energy and reduce overwhelm.
Control issues, guilt, shame, forgiveness, and questions about life purpose and sexuality are also within her scope. Conversations explore how past experiences shape current choices and where a person might make different decisions now.
Susan describes herself as encouraging when someone is ready to try new coping tools. She uses clear language and short-term planning to help clients notice progress. She expects honest conversation and practical next steps rather than vague reassurance.
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How evidence-based techniques fit into online sessions
Many of her sessions draw on evidence-based therapeutic techniques that focus on clear skills and behavioral change. One common approach is brief skills training that teaches concrete coping tools for managing strong emotions and reducing distress. This is useful for grief, anxiety tied to life changes, and compassion fatigue.Another common element is behavioral activation - planning small, achievable activities to rebuild routine and improve mood. That method helps people who are stuck by creating simple, measurable steps toward more satisfying days.
Finding the right approach is part of the work. The therapist will collaborate with each person to pick methods that match their goals, needs, and preferences. That means reviewing what has helped before and adjusting techniques as progress is tracked.
Confirm the session formats available before booking, since the biography does not list specific delivery methods. Online sessions can make it easier to fit therapy into a busy schedule, reduce travel time, and allow shorter check-ins when needed. Discuss format options during the matching questionnaire and scheduling step to choose what fits your daily routine.
Sheet 3
Areas of expertise
Additional focus areas
Experience
15+ years
Listed in
Illinois
Languages
English
Sheet 4
Frequently asked questions
What concerns does she address?
She supports people with LGBT concerns, grief and loss, self-esteem, coping with life changes, and compassion fatigue. Additional focus areas include chronic pain, control issues, forgiveness, guilt and shame, life purpose, self-love, and sexuality.
How does she approach therapy?
She uses straightforward conversation and practical coping strategies. Sessions focus on naming priorities, setting small goals, and practicing concrete techniques between meetings.
How much clinical experience does she have?
She has 15 years of professional experience in clinical practice. That background informs her work with grief, identity concerns, and long-term stress like compassion fatigue.
What are her credentials and where is she based?
She holds an LCSW credential and is licensed in Illinois. Her practice is listed in Illinois.
Which languages are supported?
Sessions are offered in English. International clients are not currently accepted.
What session formats are available?
Please confirm current session options before booking, as the biography does not specify formats. Check the therapist's profile or scheduling flow for up-to-date format details.
How are fees handled?
Cost varies with location and sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time. Confirm pricing details during the sign-up process.
How do I begin working with her?
Select the "See online therapy options" button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule a first session. That process starts the intake and booking steps.
Online talk therapy is not emergency care. If you are in danger, use the urgent help numbers.