Susanne Loar, LCSW

Susanne Loar is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who integrates psychodynamic and somatic perspectives into a holistic practice aimed at helping people build confidence, fulfillment, and everyday joy. She creates a collaborative space where clients are invited to explore their inner strengths and reconnect with what sustains them. Susanne views symptoms as having served a purpose and works with clients to uncover the insights and potential gifts within those patterns, believing that that empowerment can ripple through many areas of life.

She brings particular expertise in addictive disorders and practical experience supporting individuals and families to develop new ways of living without problematic substances or behaviors. Susanne is available to discuss personal struggles as well as how a partner's or child’s addiction may be affecting a person’s wellbeing. Originally from Germany, she has lived and traveled in multiple countries and values social work for its person-centered focus and engagement with human diversity. Her approach is eclectic and informed by ongoing review of current research while always honoring each person’s unique story and needs.

With 15 years of experience, Susanne has worked in inpatient and outpatient substance use disorder settings, public mental health agencies, hospital inpatient mental health services, and in the neonatal intensive care unit. She also supervises associate social workers and substance use specialists and strives to meet people where they are, listen with care, and celebrate progress.

Therapeutic Approaches for Online Care

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps people clarify their values and commit to actions that align with what matters most, offering tools for managing difficult thoughts and emotions while pursuing a meaningful life. Attachment-Based Therapy focuses on patterns of relating developed early in life and supports rebuilding trust, connection, and healthier ways of relating in intimate and family relationships. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) identifies unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns and introduces practical skills to address anxiety, depression, and stress-related problems.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic journey, and Susanne collaborates with each person to identify which methods best match their needs, goals, and preferences. She tailors techniques from different models as appropriate and works together with clients to refine the plan over time.

Online therapy offers flexibility and accessibility through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging. These options make it easier to fit therapy into busy schedules, maintain continuity during life changes, and access licensed professionals from home or wherever a person may be. The various formats support different needs - from real-time conversation to shorter, written check-ins - allowing therapists and clients to find what works best for their process.