Susan Locke
Phoenix,AZ
Summary
Dynamic higher education and behavioral health professional with over 25 years of experience dedicated to empowering adult learners, neurodivergent individuals, and trauma-affected populations in clinical and academic environments.
Expertise includes online student advising, learner retention strategies, academic progression facilitation, psychoeducation, and interdisciplinary support within virtual learning contexts. Proficient in translating complex clinical and academic concepts into accessible, student-centered communication, fostering an inclusive learning atmosphere.
Actively pursuing remote opportunities in adjunct instruction, online learner support, disability services, behavioral health education, and academic advising to enhance student success.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
Work History
Licensed Associate Counselor
Beckstein and Associates Behavioral Health
05.2024 - Current
- Provide telehealth and in-person counseling services for adults with complex trauma, neurodivergence, anxiety, and attachment-related concerns.
- Utilize EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), psychoeducation, and somatic approaches to support emotional regulation and trauma recovery.
- Translate complex psychological concepts into accessible educational support for clients within virtual and in-person environments.
- Maintain accurate clinical documentation and coordinate care within interdisciplinary treatment settings.
- Built rapport with diverse clientele by demonstrating empathy, active listening skills, and cultural competence in counseling sessions.
Student Success Advisor III
Trident University International
07.2019 - 07.2025
- Provided virtual academic advising and student success support for military-affiliated adult learners in a fully online university environment.
- Assisted students with degree planning, course sequencing, academic progression, and long-term educational goal completion.
- Supported student retention through proactive outreach, problem-solving, coaching, and referral to institutional support services.
- Guided students through academic systems, university policies, and enrollment processes while maintaining detailed documentation.
- Collaborated with faculty and interdisciplinary departments to support learner persistence and student engagement.
Academic and Finance Advisor
Northcentral University
07.2018 - 07.2019
- Provided remote academic and financial advising for adult learners in online higher education programs.
- Supported students with academic planning, financial aid navigation, course scheduling, and ongoing learner support.
- Assisted students in overcoming barriers impacting persistence, engagement, and program completion.
Lead Counselor – SMI Outpatient Services
Southwest Behavioral Health Services
02.2007 - 02.2009
- Provided individual and group counseling for adults with serious mental illness and co-occurring substance use disorders.
- Supervised associate counselors and facilitated clinical team meetings focused on treatment planning and continuity of care.
- Delivered psychoeducation and skills-based group facilitation to support emotional regulation and recovery.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary providers, probation departments, and community agencies to coordinate client support.
- Conducted regular case reviews to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and quality assurance.
Counselor III
New Arizona Family
02.2004 - 02.2007
- Conducted intake assessments, SMI evaluations, treatment planning, and individual and group counseling services.
- Facilitated intensive outpatient recovery groups and provided psychoeducation focused on coping skills and behavioral health support.
- Supported clients involved in mental health court through advocacy, coordination, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
- Facilitated group therapy sessions to enhance peer support and communication skills among participants.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to ensure holistic care for clients facing complex challenges.
Education
Ph.D. - Health Science (Neuropsychology)
Trident University International
Chandler, AZ12-2028
Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies - School Guidance Counseling
Ottawa University-Phoenix
Master of Education - Educational Psychology
Northern Arizona University
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
Northern Arizona University
Skills
- Online learner engagement
- Academic advising
- Student retention
- Neurodiversity-affirming support
- Psychoeducation
- Canvas LMS
- Telehealth platforms
- Behavioral health education
- Individual and group counseling
- EMDR-informed support
- EHR systems
Languages
Spanish
Limited Working
English
Native or Bilingual
Interests
- Cooking
- DIY and Home Improvement
- Reading
- Hiking
- Growing herbs, vegetables, or fruits in home gardens
- Drawing and Painting
- Participating in fundraising events to support local charities, schools, or community projects
- Volunteering at community kitchens and food-related charities
- Music
- Pilates
Timeline
Licensed Associate Counselor
Beckstein and Associates Behavioral Health
05.2024 - Current
Student Success Advisor III
Trident University International
07.2019 - 07.2025
Academic and Finance Advisor
Northcentral University
07.2018 - 07.2019
Lead Counselor – SMI Outpatient Services
Southwest Behavioral Health Services
02.2007 - 02.2009
Counselor III
New Arizona Family
02.2004 - 02.2007
Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies - School Guidance Counseling
Ottawa University-Phoenix
Master of Education - Educational Psychology
Northern Arizona University
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
Northern Arizona University
Ph.D. - Health Science (Neuropsychology)
Trident University International
Additional Experience
Additional experience includes behavioral health case management, office management, program coordination, volunteer leadership, and community-based support services across nonprofit, outpatient, and educational settings.