Who is Suzanne Bergmann?
Hi, I’m Suzanne Bergmann, LCSW and I’m a licensed clinical social worker providing virtual psychotherapy in New York State, New Jersey, Florida and Virginia. My passion for the study of dreams has led me to specialize in the treatment of insomnia, trauma/PTSD, and nightmares.
Prior to joining Dr. Tal’s private practice, I gained experience with many complex issues such as traumatic brain injury/long-term disabilities, depression, homelessness, trauma/PTSD, sleep disorders and substance abuse. I am intrigued and inspired by the strength and endurance I observe in many clients battling long-term illnesses, and I am humbled by how many people have “beat the odds” and make significant progress beyond any medical prognosis. My past experiences have taught me the importance of hope, tenacity, and the power of our thoughts and I bring these lessons and insights into short-term psychotherapy sessions. What a person was told, especially what a person told themselves and believes, is a driving force to their recovery and success. Although I am typically treating one or two disorders or groups of symptoms using evidence-based practices, I value each person’s unique journey that brought them to connect with me and tailor treatment based on their personal and clinical needs.
Where it all started
For as long as I can remember I’ve had a passion for understanding dreams and I recognize them as an important part of our sleep. Dreams and sleep did not become a part of my professional life until I started treating military sexual trauma and noticed the significant impact nightmares and insomnia have on those recovering from trauma. I pursued additional training to treat trauma-related nightmares and insomnia from the US Army in 2016. It was at this training I was first introduced to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I). Later, I pursued additional advanced training in CBT-I from the VA CBT-I Training Program. I was amazed how quick and effective this treatment was and the strong research showing support to use CBT-I as a first line treatment for insomnia before medication! CBT-I is often recommended to treat insomnia first before other comorbid conditions because the symptoms of insomnia can interfere with other mental health treatment. Despite the strong support for CBT-I, I was surprised not to find more clinicians trained in CBT-I or more clinics offering this treatment. I soon found Dr. Joshua Tal, a trailblazer in the field determined to increase access to high-quality insomnia treatment by offering a virtual Bootcamp-style treatment with support in between sessions.
How I help
I have a passion for helping people achieve their mental health goals and regain the energy and focus they need to achieve their goals and ambitions. I have seen evidence-based practices for insomnia, nightmares and trauma begin to alleviate debilitating symptoms in a very short amount of time. Whether you have been suffering for 3 months or 3 decades, I have witnessed people recover and regain a quality of their lives they thought was lost. Since recovery can be abrupt and dramatic for some, I also address adjustment to your sense of identity and grief associated with the many losses these struggles have caused.
My style is interactive and direct, and I am passionate about helping clients work through areas where they feel stuck and hopeless. I understand how sleep issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, and interpersonal conflicts can make every day a struggle. One of my greatest joys is witnessing a client regain hope and recognize the ripple effect the one small change they made will have on their lives. We will work together to discover your strengths, learn new skills, and use them to create positive, lasting change.
Have questions or want to know more? Book a free 10-minute phone consultation with me.
Credentials
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Licensed in the states of New York, New Jersey and Virginia for the practice of clinical social work.
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Licensed for telehealth in the state of Florida (for more information, see http://www.flhealthsource.gov/telehealth/)
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Master of Social Work degree from Stony Brook University, The State University of New York.
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Over 9 years of clinical experience at the Northport Veterans Affairs Medical Center.
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Advanced certificates and training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I), Exposure, Relaxation and Rescripting Therapy (ERRT) for trauma-related nightmares, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for PTSD, Skills Training in Affect and Interpersonal Regulation (STAIR) for PTSD and Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) for depression.
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Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Administration of Justice from Rutgers University.
When I'm not providing therapy, I love to...
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Take hikes with my husband and two children (ages 4 and 11).
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Practice yoga, especially on the beach!
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Watch action romantic comedies especially superhero movies.
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Laugh and cringe at my latest pun.
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Discuss dreams.