Qualifications:
My name is Susan Dillinger. I hold a B.S. degree in Psychology from Chapman University. I have a M.S. degree in Counseling and Development awarded by Texas Woman's University (TWU). I am currently a Licensed Professional Counselor-Intern (LPC-Intern), holding Texas License Number 66335, working under the supervision of B. Gayle Luster, M.A., LPC-Supervisor. I have experience working with adults and older adolescents dealing with a variety of emotional concerns including, but not limited to, abuse, grief, depression, anxiety, PTSD, GLBT issues and other mental health conditions such as bipolar disorder.
Although I am a relative newcomer to the counseling world, I have a great deal of life experience. I began college for counseling over 20 years ago but life had other plans. Today I have come full circle and I am thrilled to have the opportunity to work in a field that has truly been my life dream. I look forward to working with you through your own life experiences and struggles. I know there are many obstacles we must face throughout our lifetimes.
Professional Memberships:
I am a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC), a member of the American Counseling Association (ACA), a member of the Texas Counseling Association (TCA), and a member of the Association for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, & Transgender Issues in Counseling (ALGBTIC).
What kind of counseling do I do?
I work from an Existential theoretical base. Existentialists believe meaning in life is found in being present in each moment. We miss out on life when we run away or fear things/situations. As an Existentialist, I believe all humans have freedom of choice and responsibility for their own choices. Because of the things we choose, we sometimes lose sight of who we are and what we're working toward. As we lose sight, we develop anxiety due to our inner conflicts. Anxiety begins to takes over and keeps us from living a full life.
Through the counseling process, we will examine the here and now and explore your view of your world. After all, it's your view that counts, not someone else's. We will work together to understand the meaning you have placed on aspects of your life and how this meaning may be creating a struggle for you. Existential theory allows for the use of various counseling techniques. I sometimes employ person-centered techniques through the utilization of reflection. At times, Cognitive Behavioral techniques work well. Techniques utilized will be those that have been empirically based and researched.
REGARDLESS of the techniques, I want you to understand that you will not be forced to do anything you do not want to do. This is YOUR counseling session.
