Central Jersey Psychotherapy, LLC

About Susan:

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Susan Martinez is a Psychotherapist licensed by the state of NJ. She is experienced in treating mental health issues, complex trauma and issues related to immigration, the migration process, and acculturation. She is adept in providing therapy to adolescents, adults, couples and families. While her approach tends to be holistic in nature, Susan also provides traditional  short and long term therapy, in Hillsborough, New Jersey.

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Unbeknownst to some, Ms. Martinez began her career as a veterinary technician as a young adult, prior to becoming a licensed therapist. She has a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by veterianarians, technicians, behaviorists, and animal trainers, professions marked by high rates of anxiety, depression, and suicide. 

 

Before comencing her work in private practice, Susan dedicated much of her career to issues surrounding complex trauma and immigrant populations. She worked for several Non- Profits in the state of New Jersey, where her focus was on serving survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking. Much of her work has been dedicated to serving the Latino community and other immigrant / marginalized populations. Susan has experience in working with the following populations:

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American, (North American) USA and Canada

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Latin American, (Central, South America) i.e. Argentine, Colombian, Costa Rican, Guatemalan, Ecuadoran, Honduran, Mexican, Salvadoran, Paraguayan, Peruvian, Portugues, Venezuelan.

 

Caribbean, (Cuban, Dominican, Haitian, Puerto Rican).

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Asian, (Bengali, Chinese, Indian, Korean, Pakistani, Phillipino, Sri Lankan, Taiwanese).

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Additionally, Susan has experience in working with members of the LGBTQ community of a variety of races and ethnicites.

 

Susan is an expert on immigration issues. She is mindful of the unique stressors and impact that the migration process can create for immigrants, including: isolation, family, relationship, employment, cultural identity, integration, and inter-generational issues. Susan is aware of the intersectionality of all of these, and how they impact well-being, mental health, and living a fulfilling life.

 

Susan is a trained forensic expert. She has extensive experience evaluating and writing affidavits for U Visas, VAWA Petitions, extreme hardship, cancellation of removal, and political asylum cases. Susan trained at the Columbia University Asylum Clinic and is familiar with the Istanbul Protocol.  She is a member of Physicians for Human Rights’ Asylum Network, where she conducts psychological evaluations documenting evidence of torture and persecution for survivors fleeing danger in their home countries. She is a member of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW). Susan furthered her education by completing a SEAK training in order to become an even more effective expert witness.

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Education:

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Susan's qualifications include a bachelor’s degree from Rutgers University and teaching certification for grades K-12 from the state of New Jersey. Susan earned her master’s degree from the Rutgers University School of Social Work in New Brunswick, N.J., where she graduated with highest honors and an additional certification from the Rutgers Addiction Counselor Training program. Additionally, Susan holds a certification in treating Complex Trauma. Susan is  a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.

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Additional Training:

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Susan has studied meditation and holistic healing since 1981 and she is a Reiki Master and a certified yoga instructor ad the advanced 700 hour level. She has taught yoga and meditation throughout the tri- state area since 2001.

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In her spare time Susan enjoys spending time with her dog, family and friends. She is an avid kayaker and can be found kayaking all year around

 

 

Speaking Engagements:

 

A sought-after speaker, Susan facilitates workshops on the following topics:

 

Mental Health

Self- Care for Social Workers and Mental Health Professionals

Cultural Competency

Working with Latino Adolescents and Youth

Healing  from Child Abuse and Trauma

Domestic Violence & Restraining Orders

Stress Reduction

Yoga & Meditation

Reiki

 

Susan has presented at the following venues:

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American Ballet Theater

Applegate farms

Carrier Clinic

Dwight and Church

Edna Mahon Correctional Facility

Easter Seals Corporate

Montessori Schools

Raritan Valley Community College

Rider University

Rutgers University

Somerset County Library System

Woodbridge Township Schools

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Susan's speaking engagements are suitable for the public, corporate and private sector.

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