About Susan Rhoads
Focus areas
Addiction / Substance Abuse
Anger Management
Bipolar Disorder
Alcoholism
Anxiety
Alzheimer's Disease
Autism
Clientele seen
Adults (25-64)
Individuals
Treatment approaches
Acceptance and Commitment (ACT)
Cognitive Processing (CPT)
Attachment-based
Compassion Focused
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Dialectical (DBT)
Identity
Gender
FemaleLanguages spoken
English
Getting to know Susan Rhoads
I'm glad you are here! With me, you’ll find calming support for anxiety, trauma, and life’s toughest moments. I have nearly two decades of experience, and specialize in working with First Responders, Veterans, and other individuals who are navigating PTSD, trauma, anxiety, depression, and/or substance use. Using a warm, interactive approach rooted in trauma-focused CBT, I tailor each session to meet you where you are and help guide you toward peace, clarity, and lasting healing.
My therapy style is typically warm, interactive, and I believe in meeting the client where they are currently at. I believe that everyone should be treated with dignity, respect, compassion, and understanding. I don't believe in labels, but in understanding a diagnosis that fits the symptoms, we may be able to find solutions and peace while moving forward. My approach is eclectic in that not one approach is right for all, and therefore, my approach is often tailored to the situation and the individual. I often use cognitive behavioral techniques to assist in processing and furthering treatment. Treatment plans will be completed in a collaborative fashion as it takes courage to seek counseling and look inside; therefore, what you wish to accomplish or where you wish to go is up to you. I will walk beside you and be your guide. I want to help you achieve the best version of you that you can be! I look forward to meeting you and taking this journey with you.
What should a new client know about working with you?
Have you experienced a traumatic event or felt overwhelmed by lingering fear and anxiety? Do you find yourself reacting in ways you can’t control, no matter how hard you try? Has anxiety or past trauma taken hold of your life—and maybe even made previous therapy feel ineffective? If this sounds like you, I want you to know you’re not alone—and healing is possible. I specialize in working with First Responders, Veterans, and others who have experienced high levels of stress, trauma, and emotional overwhelm. Many of my clients come to me feeling exhausted, burned out, or stuck in patterns they can’t seem to change. With nearly two decades of experience, I offer a supportive, nonjudgmental space to explore what’s weighing you down. Together, we’ll work to untangle the effects of PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief, or compassion fatigue—often using approaches like trauma-focused CBT, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Prolonged Exposure. I also help clients understand how trauma is stored in the body, and how deep, lasting relief comes not just from talking—but from reconnecting with yourself on every level. My style is warm, down-to-earth, and collaborative. I meet you where you are, and we build a treatment plan around your goals. You don’t have to carry this alone. Let’s walk this healing path together.
My communication style is warm, supportive, and direct. I strive to create a safe, grounded environment where you feel heard, respected, and understood—no matter what you bring into the session. Clients often tell me they appreciate that I listen with intention and offer honest, compassionate feedback. I’m not afraid to gently challenge patterns when needed, but I always do so with care and your goals in mind. While we may be working through difficult emotions or painful experiences, therapy itself doesn’t have to feel hard. I believe healing can happen in a space that’s calm, even lighthearted at times.
What is your typical process for working with clients?
I graduated from Missouri Southern State University with a bachelor's degree in Sociology and from Missouri State University with a master's degree in Social Work. I believe that regardless of career path, life journey, or decisions made, you have earned the right to have a sense of peace and enjoy life. I acknowledge how difficult it is to reach out for help. I am passionate about assisting my clients through the good times, the challenging times, and the moments that are difficult to face. I strive to provide the best care for every client in a manner that fits each unique situation.
I help clients reach their goals by first creating a space where they feel safe, heard, and understood. From our very first session, we work collaboratively to identify what you want to achieve—whether it's reducing anxiety, healing from trauma, improving relationships, or simply feeling more like yourself again. Together, we’ll clarify your goals in realistic, meaningful terms and break them down into manageable steps. My approach is tailored to each individual, drawing on evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and trauma-informed care to guide the process. I regularly check in with you about what’s working, what’s not, and how you’re feeling about your progress. If your goals evolve over time, we adjust the plan together—ensuring that therapy stays aligned with your needs and priorities. Whether your goals are big or small, I’ll help you build insight, develop effective coping tools, and move forward with confidence. Progress may not always be linear, but I’ll be there to support you through the challenges and celebrate the milestones along the way.
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In-network insurances
Aetna
BlueCross BlueShield
Cigna
UnitedHealthcare
UnitedHealthcare Oxford
Popular visit reasons
New Patient Visit
Pain Management Consultation
Pediatric Tics / Tourette Syndrome
Pre-Move In Couples Counseling
Psychosexual Evaluation
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit
Sleep Problems
New Patient Visit
Pain Management Consultation
Pediatric Tics / Tourette Syndrome
Pre-Move In Couples Counseling
Education and background
Practice names
Education and training
- Missouri State University, Master's in Social Work
NPI number
1730521931
How soon can I make an appointment with Susan Rhoads?
Generally, Susan Rhoads has appointments available on Zocdoc within 1 week. You can see Susan Rhoads's earliest availability on Zocdoc and make an appointment online.
Is Susan Rhoads accepting new patients?
Susan Rhoads generally accepts new patients on Zocdoc. You can see Susan Rhoads's earliest availability on Zocdoc and schedule an appointment online.
Does Susan Rhoads accept my insurance?
Choose your insurance plan to verify if Susan Rhoads is in-network.
Can I make an appointment with Susan Rhoads online?
Yes, you can make an appointment online with Susan Rhoads using Zocdoc. It’s simple, secure, and free.
What practice does Susan Rhoads work with?
Susan Rhoads works with Rula Health - Missouri.
What are common reasons for patients to see Susan Rhoads?
Susan Rhoads frequently sees patients for New Patient Visit, Pain Management Consultation, Psychotherapy, Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit, and Sleep Problems. You can see other visit reasons for Susan Rhoads on their profile.
What languages does Susan Rhoads speak?
Susan Rhoads speaks English.