Hello, I am Susan Watkins, a licensed marriage and family therapist (MFT 34412, CA 1997) and I hold a clinical Doctorate in Psychology (Psy.D., SCUPS, 1999) with a Masters in Counseling (M.S. CSUH, 1995) and a B.A. in Psychology from U.C. Berkeley. I have provided therapy for trauma survivors and individuals or couples needing relationship counseling in the S.F. Bay Area since 1994.

I use an emotionally focused and cognitive-behavioral skills building approach to relationship conflict and a mind/body awareness approach for stress and anxiety management. My academic training and experience with trauma resolution (EMDR), Mindfulness based stress reduction (MBSR), and Dance Movement Therapy combine with my early life years of experience as a professional classical dancer (with London's Royal Ballet and New York's Joffery Ballet) to enrich this approach.

I am strongly interested in the current scientific research on the mind body connection, especially the new research on neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to reorganize itself throughout life. We are able to change our thinking, feeling and relationship habits, because our brains are able to change structure and functioning, and Psychotherapy can facilitate the brain's ability to change itself.

My goal as a therapist is to assist my clients in their exciting and challenging change process.