About

 
 

A portrait of Susan Nelson, Seattle psychotherapist

I am fortunate to have found my vocation. Working as a psychotherapist is my passion and true calling.  I am a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Washington (license #LH 9743) and received my Master's degree in clinical psychology from Antioch University in 2001. My primary interests are working with adult individuals, couples, and parent/infant dyads. I am particularly interested in the study of developmental trauma and how it plays out relationally. I draw on concepts from relational, interpersonal, object relations and contemporary psychoanalytic theories, in addition to current evidence-based treatments from research in neurobiology, human development, and cognitive behavioral methodologies. My private practice is centrally located in the Wallingford neighborhood of northeast Seattle.

In addition to my practice, I offer ongoing consultation and supervision to therapists. I am a member and former President of the Northwest Alliance for Psychoanalytic Study. I am also a member in the following organizations: Div. 39 of the American Psychological Association, the International Association of Relational Psychoanalysis and Psychotherapy, and the Northern California Society for Psychoanalytic Psychology. In addition to seeing patients in my private practice, I also enjoy writing and presenting professionally. 

I specialize in the following:

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Trauma
  • Bipolar Disorder
  • Adult growth & development
  • Grief and loss
  • ADHD
  • Couples and relational issues 
  • Parent-infant attachment
  • Prenatal and postpartum depression and anxiety

Certifications:

  • Parent-Infant Psychotherapy Certification, NW Center for Object Relations 
  • Psychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy - Level 1 and Level 2
  • Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy - CORE skills
  • Washington State-Approved Supervisor

 

Insurance:

I am an out-of-network provider on all insurance plans. If you would like to use your insurance for your therapy you will need to contact your insurance company prior to our first session to find out what the coverage is for out-of-network providers. The financial agreement for payment for therapy is between you and me, not between your insurance company and me. I do offer a limited number of sliding fee slots in my practice for those with financial need. Payment for therapy is made directly to me at the time of service. At this time I accept payment in cash, check, or credit/debit cards. Upon request, I will provide you with a monthly statement that you can use to submit to your insurance for reimbursement.

Photo © Will Barnes. All rights reserved.