I received my Bachelor's Degree in Psychology with a minor in Family Studies in December 1985 from Texas Tech University. In May 1987, I received a Master's Degree in Education with a major in Educational Psychology / Counseling and a minor in Marriage and Family Therapy also from Texas Tech University. While in school and for many years afterward, I worked as a volunteer for Contact Lubbock Suicide Hotline and at Women's Protective Services. I am a member of West Texas Counseling Association. I am a member of First United Methodist Church.

The counseling practice of Suzanne Foley, M. Ed. includes adults and children and focuses on individual, marriage, and family counseling. Although the specific techniques I employ in therapy will vary, I believe that it is important for clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in order to promote change and to attain goals. Generally, the way people interpret what they think will affect how they feel. Their feelings then, will affect how they react. Therefore, in order for people to make changes in behavior, they must first change their thoughts. 

I believe that change occurs most readily for clients when they experience the therapist as caring, genuine, congruent, empathetic, and accepting. It is also important for the therapist to be warm, concrete, respectful, and positive. I accept clients into my private practice who believe that they have the capacity to resolve their own problems with my assistance.

I believe that as people become more accepting of themselves, they are capable of finding happiness and contentment in their lives. However, self-awareness and self-acceptance are goals that may take a long time to achieve, sometimes requiring months or years. The counseling process often results in life changes for the client. Clients may handle relationships differently, choose to change jobs, or make other alterations to their lifestyle.

The therapist's role is not to make decisions for clients, but to be available to assist in making alterations and in understanding the impact of those changes on the client and others. Sometimes, therapists suggest other therapeutic modalities that would also be of benefit to the client. If counseling is successful, clients should feel that they are typically able to face life's challenges in the future without therapist support or intervention; however, the therapist should be available for future sessions if needed to encourage the client.

Learn more about Suzanne Foley, M. Ed. and her various counseling methods.