Susan Gallenz

Susan Gallenz is a licensed clinical social worker in Virginia with 15 years of experience. She focuses on helping people who feel isolated or lonely, and those dealing with stress, anxiety, grief, trauma, and anger. She offers calm support and practical steps so people can begin to feel steadier and more connected.

Susan believes each person knows their own story and brings strengths into therapy. She listens first, then works alongside people to set small, manageable goals. Sessions often include talking through recent events, learning ways to cope with panic or intense feelings, and practicing skills to improve day-to-day functioning.

Her background includes a Master of Social Work from the University of Georgia and many years working with at-risk populations, including volunteer service with the U.S. Peace Corps in Jamaica. That mix of community experience and clinical work shapes how she approaches clients today.

Susan draws on evidence-based therapeutic techniques to address problems like social anxiety, mood shifts, workplace stress, and relationships with identity and sexuality. She pays attention to trauma and to how grief or guilt can affect daily life.

People who choose Susan can expect a straightforward, compassionate style. She aims to guide, support, and help people build practical coping tools. The first step is often the hardest, and she encourages those who are ready to reach out and begin small changes.

Approaches that help build connection online

Many evidence-based therapeutic techniques focus on skills people can practice between sessions. One common approach uses structured coping skills to reduce panic and anxiety, teaching breathing, grounding, and short behavioral steps to interrupt overwhelming reactions. Another approach centers on processing grief and trauma in small, manageable pieces so memories and emotions feel less overwhelming and more understandable.

Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. The therapist listens to current struggles, goals, and preferences and then suggests a path forward. Together they adjust techniques over time so sessions match what actually helps in day-to-day life.

Confirm which session formats are currently offered before booking, as this profile does not list specific formats. Online therapy can make it easier to fit appointments into a busy schedule, reduce travel time, and allow check-ins during work breaks or evenings. It also allows focusing on practical skills in ways that transfer directly to everyday settings, helping people practice new responses in the contexts where they need them most.