Susan Dunaway-Tsujihara

My communication style

I have lots of compassion for the pain people have experienced. I feel that I am a good listener and will validate where people are at and will follow the pace at which clients are ready to work.

My journey to mental healthcare

I started as a music therapist (I still love singing!) and decided that I needed more skills to help people. I worked in crisis and triage services while simultaneously having a private practice. I continue to love to read and go to conferences to continue learning about this ever-evolving field.

My goals for you

I ask about goals at the beginning of treatment and check in regularly about whether we are making progress according to the client's perspective. If we need to shift to a different path, we can discuss this and choose a new direction. I am strength-based and pay attention to what people's strengths are that they often can't see.

Our first session

I try to let people "tell their story," but also get a background of how people got where they are. I focus on goals and give some kind of "homework" to think about and work on between sessions.

I identify as...

• Female
• Caucasian or White
• Christian