Suzanne Hartness Fentress, LISW-CP

Areas of Expertise

  • Depression & Self-Esteem

  • Stress & Anxiety

  • Burnout

  • Grief & Loss

  • Substance Use/Misuse

  • Life Transitions

Suzanne’s Approach

Suzanne’s leadership experience includes serving as owner and operator of Suzanne Hartness Therapy Services, providing corporate training and Employee Assistance Program (EAP) services. As well as holding leadership positions as Director of a 28-day substance abuse recovery center, Director of a domestic violence shelter, and Director of an outpatient psychiatric and substance abuse clinic. She also brings experience from hospital settings, including the emergency department and case management. These roles have provided Suzanne with a broad and nuanced understanding of complex clinical presentations, crisis intervention, and the continuum of care across settings.

 

ABOUT suzanne

With over 25 years of experience in the mental health field, Suzanne brings a depth of clinical expertise and a steady, refined approach to her work as a therapist. She is committed to providing high-quality, evidence-based care that supports meaningful and lasting change.

Suzanne works with adults navigating anxiety, depression, burnout, grief, substance use concerns, and challenges related to work, life transitions, and interpersonal relationships. Many of the individuals she works with are accustomed to functioning at a high level while internally managing significant stress, pressure, or emotional strain. Suzanne understands that many people seeking therapy are used to being the one others depend on and may feel exhausted from carrying responsibilities while continuing to push through. She provides a space where clients can step out of constant pressure and begin approaching challenges with greater clarity, steadiness, and perspective.

Her clinical background includes extensive experience working with individuals navigating alcohol and substance use concerns, as well as supporting family members impacted by addiction and recovery. Suzanne is a former Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) and draws from recovery-oriented and evidence-based approaches, including principles of 12-step recovery when clinically appropriate.

Suzanne’s approach is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), with intensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and solution-focused strategies. She integrates these approaches in a thoughtful and individualized way, helping clients build practical skills, deepen insight, and create sustainable changes that extend beyond the therapy setting.

Known for her calm, structured, and discerning clinical style, Suzanne values a collaborative process and works alongside her clients to develop clear, effective strategies that support long-term emotional health and resilience. Her goal is to help clients move beyond symptom management and create meaningful, sustainable change that supports overall well-being.

EDUCATION

  • Master of Social Work, University of South Carolina

  • Bachelor of Science in Sociology, Oklahoma State University

Licensure

  • Licensed Independent Social Worker - Clinical Practice (SC License #6853)

Insurance & Fees

  • Suzanne is not paneled with any insurance company. Her self pay ranges from $175 - $200. She accepts cash, checks, all major debit & credit cards, and HSA cards..

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Asha McMillian, MA, LPC