Professional Summary

 

Sue Schunter earned a master’s degree in clinical social work from The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA and my bachelor’s degree in journalism and child development from Iowa State University, Ames, IA. She recently worked as a licensed clinical social worker in Iowa. Sue is now in the clinical licensing phase in Illinois.

Sue has worked for three decades in therapy with individuals of all ages and life stages to help them meet their developmental and mental health needs and challenges. Her goal is to offer hope, empathy and support to see them reach their fullest potential. Together we work on a plan to enhance skills through strategies encouraging them to explore, learn, grow and pursue meaningful change.  Sue strives to make the therapeutic environment safe, accepting, and respectful, collaborating to cultivate positive change as a knowledgeable guide rather than as a sole authority or expert.

Sue Schunter is skilled in addressing underlying issues of core problems which enable growth, understanding, healing and ease of mind. She strives to provide respect and unconditional support without judgment. 

 

Sue has experience working in or with different private practice mental health settings with diverse populations such as a foster care and adoption agency, the child welfare system, private practice, a group home sexual abuse recovery program, as a hospital volunteer in spiritual care, a mental health and behavioral clinic, and as a licensed Illinois substitute teacher. Most of these settings included treating a wide range of child and/or adult mental health issues such as anxiety/depression, stress management, work, parenting, relationship discord, divorce, trauma, grief, life transitions, personality disorders, health issues, and low self-esteem.
 

Sue has an extensive experience working with preschool children (4 to 5 years old). It is not unusual for them to have big emotions in which they quickly lose control. It is beneficial for them to learn how to manage their emotions and reactions. Sometimes, she includes their guardian in session with them to facilitate the child’s comfort and sense of safety.  Sue incorporates play therapy methods such as drawing, puppets, music, books, games, and role play to work with the children on their level of understanding.

 

Sue also works with older students in elementary, middle and high school who may be struggling with challenges of low self-esteem, acceptance, trauma, stress management, relationships, hormonal shifts toward maturation, and independence. Sometimes this may lead to family therapy and, with parental permission, supportive contact with school personnel or the medical community.

 

Sue appreciates the underlying strength it takes for a client to talk about their current struggles when we explore their emotions, values, relationships, and behaviors. She strives to provide hope, empathy, respect, and unconditional support without judgment. This enables the process to provide clarity and insight into positive change. It might take a few sessions to determine if you feel we are a good therapeutic fit for you to feel comfortable and supported. Her goal is to achieve a satisfying outcome for you.