Susan O'Connell, LCSW

Licensed Wisconsin LCSW focused on addiction and grief

Addictions and family work
CBT and ACT approaches
Daytime practice hours

About Susan O'Connell

Susan O'Connell is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) practicing in Wisconsin with a long history of clinical work that began in the field of addictions. She started by supporting people with substance use disorders as well as their family members, and over the years expanded her expertise to include depression, stress and anxiety, relationship concerns, grief and loss, chronic medical issues, and caregiver and compassion fatigue. She brings decades of practical experience to each case and emphasizes working with both individuals and families when appropriate.

Susan meets people where they are and focuses on helping them identify strengths and build concrete plans for change. She uses education and brief assignments between sessions to extend therapeutic gains beyond the appointment time. Her approach is collaborative and respectful, acknowledging the courage it takes to seek help and aiming to reduce feelings of isolation for those who are struggling.

Trained in many treatment models over a lengthy career, Susan currently relies heavily on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy while staying current with newer ideas in the field. She also speaks to the importance of personal wellness and models healthy living in her own life. Her regular office hours are primarily Wednesday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. She recommends seeking a therapist with evening availability if those times are needed.

Areas of Expertise

Primary Focus

Stress, Anxiety AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression

Also Specializes In

LGBTTrauma and abuse GriefIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigueADHD

Additional Focus Areas

AbandonmentAging and geriatric issuesBlended family issuesCancerCaregiver issues and stressCodependencyCommitment issuesCommunication problemsDrug and alcohol addictionFamily of origin issuesInfidelityIsolation / lonelinessLife purposeMidlife crisisMoney and financial issuesMood disordersMulticultural concernsSeasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)Self-loveSexual assault and abuseWomen's issues

Therapeutic Approach

Client-Centered Therapy Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Solution-Focused Therapy

Frequently Asked Questions

How much experience does Susan O'Connell have?

Susan O'Connell has 35 years of experience in clinical practice.

Is Susan O'Connell a licensed therapist?

Yes. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) licensed in Wisconsin. License details: WI LCSW 3011-123.

In which languages does Susan O'Connell provide therapy?

Susan provides therapy in English.

Where is Susan O'Connell located?

Susan is located in Wisconsin.

How can I work with Susan O'Connell as my therapist?

You can work with Susan through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.

Does Susan O'Connell work with international clients?

Susan O'Connell does not currently work with international clients.

How much does therapy with Susan O'Connell cost?

The cost of therapy can vary depending on factors such as your location and the therapist's availability. Sessions are billed through a subscription that can be canceled at any time, for any reason. For current details, click the "Start Therapy" button on this page.

How can I get started with therapy?

Getting started with therapy is quick and straightforward. Click the "Start Therapy" button and complete a short questionnaire that helps match you with your therapist. Depending on availability, you can then schedule your first session, which may take place by phone, video call, live chat, or in-app messaging.

Approaches Susan Uses and How Online Therapy Works

Client-Centered Therapy focuses on building a supportive therapeutic relationship in which the therapist offers empathy and acceptance while helping the person explore their own goals and values. It is helpful for people facing life transitions, relationship concerns, or self-esteem challenges.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a skills-based approach that identifies patterns of thinking and behavior that contribute to stress, anxiety, depression, and other problems, then teaches practical strategies to change those patterns. CBT often includes structured exercises and homework to reinforce new skills.

Solution-Focused Therapy concentrates on identifying strengths and small, achievable steps that move a person toward their preferred outcomes. It is useful when someone wants focused, goal-oriented work to address specific problems.

Susan approaches treatment collaboratively and will work with each person to determine which method or combination of methods fits best based on their needs, goals, and preferences. That process - exploring options and adjusting as progress is made - is part of the therapeutic work.

Online sessions with Susan can take place via video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging, offering flexibility for different schedules and communication styles. These remote options make it easier to attend regular sessions around work, caregiving, or other commitments while still working with a licensed professional to address concerns such as stress, addiction, grief, or relationship issues.

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