Susan Goryeb Simms

From a very young age, I had a deep capacity for empathy toward others. I was labeled “too sensitive,” which at the time seemed like a curse but has, over time, become my greatest gift.

When I lost my father at 22, I learned firsthand about the impact of loss and how devastating it can be. I also learned how lonely it can feel. While friends and family cared deeply, they often didn’t know what to say or how to sit with the intensity of it. Grief needs presence, patience, and a space where every feeling is welcome. That experience deepened my belief in the importance of having a safe, compassionate place to process the pain and ultimately guided me toward supporting others navigating loss and trauma.

Over the next 30 years, in my life and my work, I became acutely aware of the depth and complexity of the struggles people face. I also witnessed the hope that lies dormant during these times, the resilience of the human spirit, and finally, the healing power of supportive therapy.
In 2019, after many years in private practice, I started the group practice of Positive Therapy 4U. I believe in the importance of this work and that everyone should be able to access help during times of struggle. I also recognized that, for clinicians, private practice—though rewarding in many ways—can be isolating and often lacks adequate support and mentorship, so my goal was to create a community of like-minded therapists to build something special—a place of connection. I know that when clinicians feel supported, they are better able to care for their clients.

While I am committed to lifelong learning, including EMDR certification, trauma-informed care, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), somatic therapy, and many others, I firmly believe that the magic occurs in the moments where the client feels the full presence of the therapist, listening and holding space for their pain, hopes, and dreams. This is the essence of Humanistic Therapy, founded by Carl Rogers, who stated,

“The gentle and sensitive companionship of an empathic stance… provides illumination and healing. In such situations, deep understanding is, I believe, the most precious gift one can give to another”.

As a therapist for more than 30 years, I have witnessed the impact of this gift many times. This is the foundation of our work at Positive Therapy 4U. Client-centered care with warmth and understanding, combined with evidence-based treatment.

Every clinician at PT4U has their own unique set of skills and specialties as well as their own style, but what unites all of us is a shared passion and vision for helping, for being “difference-makers.” Each one brings a strong commitment to their clients’ growth as well as their own. I am equally committed to fostering a sense of community and support within my team as I am to providing authentically compassionate care to our clients.

We are living in unprecedented times, and many people do not feel safe being themselves or living their lives as they wish. At Positive Therapy 4U, we strongly believe in social work ethics and are committed to advocating for inclusivity, dignity, and fundamental human rights for all. This is reflected in our core values and our commitment to creating a safe and affirming environment.