ABOUT SUE PASSALACQUA

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Fullerton and Whittier, California. I have had several professional positions and experiences which have enhanced my understanding of what women and men struggle with at different times in their lives. I taught elementary school for 9 years from 1980 to 1989 and have worked with college students for the past 15 years. I have clinical experience helping adults, children, adolescents, and couples with a wide range of problems including relationship issues, depression, anxiety, phobias, self-esteem, anger, sexual assault trauma, intimate partner violence and grief and loss.

I served as Cal State University, Fullerton's Associate Director of The Women's Center for 12 years.  In that capacity, I gained a great deal of experience working with women and men’ s sociological and psychological issues. I understand that women and men are shaped by, not only their upbringing, but their gender socialization and cultural values. I am a certified sexual assault counselor as well as having training in working with victims of intimate partner violence.  I teach Crisis Intervention in the Human Services Department at Cal State Fullerton.

My educational background includes a Masters degree in Counseling and a Bachelor's Degree in Liberal Studies from California State University, Fullerton.

In addition, I received training on a variety of clinical subjects including crisis intervention, suicidality, sexual assault, and domestic violence. I continue to work on enhancing my clinical knowledge and skills through continuing education trainings and conferences.

Philosophy of Treatment

My approach to psychotherapy is humanistic, psychodynamic and relational. I view healing of the whole person in the context of one's gender and cultural development. I provide an introspective, empathetic focus, aimed at understanding, removing emotional blocks and moving toward ongoing growth. I assess an individual's concerns, needs and goals, make appropriate referrals when necessary and work closely with community professionals, so that collaborative treatment planning and treatment options can be considered.

I believe the relationship between the client and therapist is where the most significant healing occurs. Psychotherapy becomes a creative process, incorporating introspection and the motivation to make change.

Areas of Interest

Panic attacks
Stress management
Depression
Relationship concerns
Post-traumatic stress disorder

Domestic violence

Sexual assault
Phobias
Major life decisions
Personal growth

Life Transitions

      Anxiety or Fears

Divorce

Loss or Grief

Parenting

Spirituality

Chronic illness