Susan Brumbaugh (She/her)

A lot of the reason we struggle with anxiety is that we don't like to feel anxious. It can feel incredibly unpleasant and we just want it to go away. Ironically, that unwillingness to be anxious can make us feel even more anxious. As they say, what we resist persists. I am trained to help you identify and manage troubling thoughts, have compassion in the face of fear, and use what's important to you to motivate you to move beyond that feeling of paralysis.

I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help you accept uncomfortable emotions and notice difficult thoughts without getting caught up in or swept away by them. Together, we clarify your values and take committed action toward a meaningful life—even when anxiety or fear is present. ACT teaches mindfulness and psychological flexibility, empowering you to live fully and with greater self-compassion despite challenges.

Mindfulness is a key part of ACT, and I also bring specialized training in Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction. Mindfulness helps you cultivate present-moment awareness and non-judgmental acceptance, reduce stress, and respond to difficult emotions with greater calm and clarity. I lead virtual individual and group mindfulness sessions and invite you to explore my approach on my YouTube channel (bit.ly/37jerHL). Whether or not we work together, these guided meditations are here to support you.

I bring a sex-positive, affirming approach to working with clients in polyamorous, open, and non-monogamous relationships. I offer a nonjudgmental space to explore challenges like jealousy, insecurity, communication, boundaries, power dynamics, and managing multiple relationships. I welcome clients of all gender identities and relationship orientations.

Many people struggle with anxiety because they don’t want to feel anxious—it’s uncomfortable and overwhelming. Ironically, resisting anxiety often makes it worse. As the saying goes, “what we resist persists.” Using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and mindfulness, I help you gently face anxious thoughts with compassion, develop effective coping skills, and connect with your values to move beyond fear and paralysis toward a fuller, freer life.

I help couples improve communication, deepen connection, and navigate conflict with compassion. My approach is inclusive, sex-positive, and grounded in mindfulness, ACT, and Nonviolent Communication. I support couples of all identities and relationship structures—including those exploring non-monogamy, recovering from disconnection or betrayal, or navigating life transitions together.

I use Nonviolent Communication (NVC) to help individuals and couples build deeper understanding and empathy. NVC teaches compassionate listening and honest expression, helping you communicate your needs clearly while respecting others. This approach fosters connection, reduces conflict, and supports healthier, more authentic interactions in personal and relational life.