Suzanne Elia-Hoyes

My name is Suzanne Elia-Hoyes. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). Over the last 24 years, I have worked as a professional school counselor, a licensed professional counselor in a school setting and in private practice, and a BCBA. These roles have allowed me to respond to the needs of diverse individuals, including those considered “at-risk” and those with special needs, through the primary interventions of individual and small-group counseling.

My approach

Being a LPC and BCBA allows me to help individuals develop skills and abilities to improve their lives. I have an understanding of mental health and addressing emotional and mental health disorders through counseling and applying the principles of behavior to change behavior.

My focus

I currently work with students aged three to 22 in a school setting. Through the years, I have worked with students of all ages, families, and individuals experiencing social, emotional, and behavioral issues. I feel the most comfortable working with children and adults who need support while dealing with life's stressors. I view the treatment process as a partnership. I will focus on listening carefully and providing feedback in a non-threatening way. By being authentic from the start, we can focus on building rapport and identifying goals for treatment and healing.

My communication style

I have always strived to promote respect for human dignity and diversity and to work for the good of the individual and society by promoting mental health and well-being, regardless of the diversity of clients. I have maintained awareness and sensitivity regarding cultural and diversity considerations.

My journey to mental healthcare

I started my career as an Elementary School Counselor. During this endeavor, I earned my license as a professional counselor, which allowed me to help my students overcome obstacles and improve my counseling techniques. While working with individuals, groups, and families in school and community settings, I developed a broad skill set that prepared me to provide therapy and counseling services to individuals with social, emotional, and behavioral disorders. As a BCBA, I combine my knowledge of mental health with the principles of applied behavior analysis (ABA) to assist my clients in making changes for the better in their lives. ABA is a science that can be effective in helping individuals with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism, and other behavioral issues.

My goals for you

I emphasize counseling goals that are tailored to the unique needs of the client. I focus on building a therapeutic relationship so that my clients can make personal growth and improve their mental and emotional well-being.

My first session with you

As a LPC and BCBA, it is important to establish trust and rapport with my clients. My primary objective in a therapeutic relationship is connecting with clients in a way that creates a climate of trust. It will be an ongoing process that will begin with the first session.