Karen Sussan LCSW, LMHC
Karen Sussan's office in Suffern, NY, seen from the doorway: a sofa and armchairs around a low ottoman, with coastal canvases on the walls
About Karen  -  NY: In person and via telehealth  -  FL: Telehealth only

A little more about me

Research shows the client-psychotherapist relationship is key for success in psychotherapy. Towards that end, here is a little bit more about me.


Karen Sussan, LCSW, LMHC, seated in her Suffern office holding a mug
Why I Do This Work

It started with my own therapy

My catalyst for becoming a psychotherapist was my own psychotherapy as a young adult in college. Over time, I gained self-understanding and came to make better choices, improving many facets of my life including relationship issues.

I have always been concerned about human suffering. This passion brought me to my work in private practice and as a chaplain.

Karen's Approach

A holistic outlook, in light of our common humanity

At the core of my work for 35 years is a holistic outlook in light of our common humanity. I believe we are each unique, endowed with power to heal, and that therapy can be a conduit for transformative change and lead towards a more fulfilling life. My integrated approach to psychotherapy lends itself to being exceedingly client-centered.

Where It Led

From the bedside to trauma work

Several years ago, sitting bedside with people in hospitals and their families, I saw a need for specializing in psychotherapy for trauma, pain and medical issues. Now, with EMDR and trauma-informed psychotherapy, I have solid tools to help those struggling with complex grief and loss, postpartum, medical trauma, chronic pain and medical conditions, and medical phobias.

Still Learning

What I am studying now

As a lifelong learner, I presently am learning about preverbal trauma. Preverbal trauma involves attachment difficulties and emotional regulation that may have occurred as early as infancy. Mutual regulation between a caretaker-and-infant is essential for paving the way to adaptive functioning and connections. Misattunement, trust breaches, and abuse may manifest in symptoms that land somatically, automatically and tend to go unnoticed, but have far-reaching impact into our life's orientation, health, and well-being.

Dylan, an orange tabby cat, sitting on a cat tree
Dylan
Outside the Office

I am not always serious

I spend a lot of time goofing off with my family. I love to swim, cook “slow,” and sing. I am inspired by our mellow, orange tabby cat, Dylan.

Credentials

Training and affiliations

I am a member of the Open Path Psychotherapy Collective, which offers reduced-fee sessions to people who meet its eligibility requirements.

Getting Started

Now that you know a little more about me

If you think I might be a good fit for helping you make changes and grow, let us talk. I offer a free phone consultation. You can reach me at 845-202-9774 or through the contact page.

I see clients in person at my Suffern, NY office and via telehealth throughout New York State and Florida.

Curious if this feels like the right fit?

I invite you to start with a consultation. There is no pressure, just a conversation to see whether working together makes sense.