Susanna Kitayama, MS, LMFT

Works with: Children, Teens, Adults, Parents, Couples, Families

Specialties: PTSD and Trauma, Grief, EMDR, Discernment Counseling, Anxiety, Depression, Sports Therapy

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a B.S. in Psychology from the University of California, Berkeley, and an M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy from Fuller Theological Seminary. Before becoming a therapist, I worked as a registered nurse in the intensive care unit for over 10 years and also provided hospice care. Those experiences deepened my compassion and strengthened my commitment to walking alongside people through pain, healing, and transformation.

I specialize in trauma recovery and am a certified EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapist through the EMDR International Association (EMDRIA). It is an honor to walk alongside clients as they process difficult experiences, and I am continually inspired by the strength they demonstrate as they work through trauma and find freedom on the other side. In my practice, I integrate Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and attachment-based therapy when working with adults and couples. With children, I use Child-Centered Play Therapy, Theraplay, and EMDR to support healing and strengthen family connections.

I also enjoy working with adolescents. I strive to create a safe, supportive space where teens feel heard, understood, and empowered. I help them navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, self-esteem, life transitions, peer relationships, and emotional regulation while fostering resilience and healthy coping skills.

Many young people today are heavily involved in competitive sports. As the parent of three student-athletes for more than a decade, I understand the stress and pressure youth sports can place on both athletes and their families. I help athletes cope with challenges such as performance anxiety, injuries, burnout, and the pressure to succeed. Using evidence-based techniques such as EMDR, goal setting, visualization, and relaxation strategies, I help athletes develop a resilient mindset that supports both peak performance and long-term mental well-being.

As a Christian, I value integrating faith and healing for clients who desire it, while welcoming and respecting individuals of all beliefs. I speak both English and Mandarin and bring an appreciation for diverse cultural backgrounds, which helps me connect more deeply with clients from a wide range of communities.

I have been happily married for 24 years and am the mother of three children. My own journey as a parent has given me valuable insight into the challenges families face, and I combine my professional expertise with lived experience to support individuals, couples, and families in building healthier, more connected relationships.

In my free time, I enjoy playing tennis, practicing Pilates and yoga, and cheering on my children as they compete in their sports.

Contact: 210-538-1758, kitayama@icfetx.com

Asian American