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Hi, my name is Susanna Luu, PhD. I'm a clinical psychologist specializing in a holistic approach to treating mental health concerns through a cognitive behavioral therapy lens. I am currently licensed in Iowa.
My approach
I was originally trained in developmental psychology and take great care in understanding one’s childhood. I believe the first relationships we develop become the framework that we base our next relationships on and how we view ourselves. I model a healthy caring relationship to build trust and foster change. Additionally, I am very behavior oriented and will help clients to process their emotions to make lasting changes in their lives through CBT, DBT, or CPT.
My focus
Since I am developmentally trained and have been active duty, I am very results driven and will make it a standard to guide clients to their goals at their pace. I have had a very wide experience of patients from children to adults and know how to help deliver information that is age appropriate. That means, I do expect clients to follow through on homework. Don’t worry, I always give fun and achievable homework. I have also had the unique experience to work with high performing military and can help with performance enhancement goals. Although I do have experiencing severe mental illness, I would prefer clients that are more stable and do not have acute risk factors.
My communication style
My communication style in down to earth and genuine. I will not mask my unique "real" qualities and try to bring in humor as much as I can. This is model an example of healthy communication. Further, I am always client-centered. Although I love to see clients have growth, I will always ask if clients are ready to explore the next steps of processing and meet them where they are at.
My journey to mental healthcare
From a young age, I was fascinated by the power of human connection and the resilience of the human spirit. During my childhood, a close family member went through severe mental illness. Witnessing their battle, and the significant improvement through effective behavioral health care, ignited a passion in me to help others navigate their own challenges. What’s more is my holistic approach to include the mind, body, and spirit taught through Loma Linda University, was the perfect back drop to navigating challenging/stressful environments within the Army. Being prior active duty and a part of a military family has given me the passion to teach others to survive through life’s difficult moments. If a person is willing to change, I would love to help them become the best version of themselves.
My goals for you
Goals will be based on measures to have a a quantitative number to guide clients' progress. Although these measures are not all inclusive, they do help to give a tangible understanding to clients to change them through change.
My first session with you
Past clients have told me that my first session with them is like meeting a curious and inquisitive friend for the first time. They have told me that they feel very comfortable and heard. Additionally, I have been told that they feel more organized with their situation and have at least some guidance on a possible solution for their issues.
