Hello & Welcome
My name is Pamela Sue (she/her) and I have been supporting the yoga and mental health fields since August of 2016. During this time, I graduated with my Master of Social Work (MSW) from Aurora University and passed the state licensing board examination to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Illinois.
While attending graduate school, I completed a 200-hour yoga teacher training with Yoga by Degrees and have since progressed to an Experienced-Registered Yoga Teacher (E-RYT) with Yoga Alliance, a professional organization for yoga teachers. I also hold the Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Provider (YACEP) designation, which allows me to provide continuing education for Registered Yoga Teachers (RYTs).
Currently, I am attending the 300-Hour Trauma Center Trauma Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY) Certification Training, a program of Center for Trauma and Embodiment at Justice Resource Institute (JRI). One that has become a leading evidence-based adjunct treatment for complex trauma.
From my experiences as a somatic-based, trauma-informed clinician and yoga facilitator, I have come to understand the importance of establishing safety for survivors of trauma, as well as the ongoing process of healing and recovery they live. These understandings guide the focus of my clinical practice as I continue to work with those impacted by complex trauma through the therapeutic and yogic services offered at my private practice.
“A healer does not heal you. A healer is someone who holds space for you while you awaken your inner healer, so that you may heal yourself”
Maryam Hasnaa
Therapeutic Modalities
The path of awakening to an authentic, healing self is unique for everyone. I offer an integrative approach to treatment that provides an empowering, holistic healing process. Below are names and brief descriptions of some therapeutic modalities you may expect when working with me in the therapy room.
Attachment-Based
An attachment-based approach to therapy recognizes the influence primary relationships have on our development of agency and sense of safety, and aims to (re)build trusting, supportive relationships.
Bibliotherapy
Bibliotherapy is the process of reading, reflecting upon, and discussing literature (i.e. personal narratives, storytelling, workbooks) as it relates to and supports your healing needs.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness guides your attention into the present moment by bringing your awareness to your body, feelings, mind, and the world around you as it is happening here and now.
Parts Work
Parts work recognizes there are different parts to each of us that engage our inner world, and provides a framework and vocabulary with which to explore and process our inner workings.
Person Centered
A person-centered approach to therapy believes everyone’s view of their own world and their ability to manage it should be trusted, and aims to encourage and support self-discovery through non-direction.
Somatic-Based
A somatic-based approach to therapy recognizes the importance of including the body in the healing process and takes into account the intimate connection of body and mind.
Trauma-Informed
A trauma-informed approach to therapy involves adherence to principles for practice that ensure understanding and sensitivity to trauma-related issues regardless of ones current presenting concerns.
Yogic Practices
Yogic practices (e.g. āsana, meditation, prāṇāyāma) are ancient techniques originating from Southeast Asia that encourage the union (yoke) of body, mind, and spirit, with self.