Susan Gardner, LCSW

Susan Gardner, LCSW

Psychotherapist
CA
I became a therapist because I genuinely love seeing people’s lives improve and expand in ways that feel meaningful to them. There is something incredibly powerful about watching someone move from feeling stuck or overwhelmed, to feeling more clear, confident, and hopeful. My goal is to create a space where you can show up exactly as you are, and feel truly safe, heard, and understood – without fear of judgement. I feel therapy should be a collaborative process where we work together to explore what you’re going through, and develop practical tools to help you move toward the life you want. Wherever you’re starting from, I’m here to support you with compassion, curiosity, and respect.
Highly recommended
100% of patients gave this doctor 5 stars
New patient appointments
Appointments available for new patients on Zocdoc

Book an appointment on Zocdoc

The office partners with Zocdoc to schedule appointments
External video visit

Scheduling details

  1. See if they are in network

Tomorrow, Apr 8 – Tue, Apr 21
View more availability

What patients are saying

Overall rating

5.00

About Susan Gardner

Focus areas

Anxiety
LGBTQ+ Counseling
Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit
Depression
Sleep Problems

Clientele seen

Young adults (18-24)
Individuals
Adults (25-64)
Seniors (65+)

Treatment approaches

Acceptance and Commitment (ACT)
Dialectical (DBT)
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Emotionally Focused
Culturally Sensitive
Internal Family Systems (IFS)

Identity

Gender

Female

Sexuality

Straight

Faith

Christian

Ethnicity

Indigenous American or Alaska Native, White

Languages spoken

English

Getting to know Susan Gardner

I became a therapist because I genuinely love seeing people’s lives improve and expand in ways that feel meaningful to them. There is something incredibly powerful about watching someone move from feeling stuck or overwhelmed, to feeling more clear, confident, and hopeful. My goal is to create a space where you can show up exactly as you are, and feel truly safe, heard, and understood – without fear of judgement. I feel therapy should be a collaborative process where we work together to explore what you’re going through, and develop practical tools to help you move toward the life you want. Wherever you’re starting from, I’m here to support you with compassion, curiosity, and respect.

What should a new client know about working with you?

I’m someone who appreciates meaningful conversation, quiet moments, and really getting to know people below the surface. I find this creates a comfortable, grounded environment where you can feel safe and at ease, being yourself, without any pressure to “perform”. I like spending quiet moments in nature. My favorite routine is drinking my morning coffee outside with my dogs, meditation, reflecting on hope and positivity, and listening to music is also inspirational for me.

What is your typical process for working with clients?

I will help you feel heard and understood by creating a safe space where you can show up exactly as you are, and speak openly about whatever you’re going through, without fear of judgment. From the very beginning, my focus is on truly listening, taking time to understand your experiences, your perspective, and what matters to you most. I approach our work together with compassion and curiosity, and I’ll check in with you to make sure you feel supported and understood. As we build that trust we’ll work collaboratively to explore what’s been holding you back, and develop practical tools to help you move forward toward the life you want. My goal is for you to feel not only heard, but genuinely supported, respected, and empowered through our work together.

In-network insurances

  • Curative
  • Western Health Advantage
  • Aetna

More information on payments and coverage

I also accept EAP through Cigna and Optum.

Popular visit reasons

Anxiety
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Depression
LGBTQ+ Counseling
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit
Sleep Problems
Therapy
Anxiety
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Depression
LGBTQ+ Counseling

Education and background

Practice names

Education and training

  • San Diego State University, Master's in Social Work

NPI number

1275781809

Patient reviews

All reviews have been submitted by patients after interacting with the practice.
Overall rating
5.00
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2 reviews
Most relevant
She’s the best! Thank you Susan for being my therapist
She’s the best! Thank you Susan for being my therapist
Frequently asked questions

How soon can I make an appointment with Susan Gardner?

Generally, Susan Gardner has appointments available on Zocdoc within 1 week. You can see Susan Gardner's earliest availability on Zocdoc and make an appointment online.

Is Susan Gardner accepting new patients?

Susan Gardner generally accepts new patients on Zocdoc. You can see Susan Gardner's earliest availability on Zocdoc and schedule an appointment online.

Does Susan Gardner accept my insurance?

Choose your insurance plan to verify if Susan Gardner is in-network.

Can I make an appointment with Susan Gardner online?

Yes, you can make an appointment online with Susan Gardner using Zocdoc. It’s simple, secure, and free.

What practice does Susan Gardner work with?

What are common reasons for patients to see Susan Gardner?

Susan Gardner frequently sees patients for Depression, Psychotherapy, Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit, Sleep Problems, and Therapy. You can see other visit reasons for Susan Gardner on their profile.

What languages does Susan Gardner speak?

Susan Gardner speaks English.