I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Substance Abuse Counselor in Hawaii with over 10 years of post-LCSW and 14 years of post-MSW experience. My background includes roles as a mental health therapist, case manager, mental health crisis clinician, working in two Level 1 trauma hospitals, and program management. Additionally, I have provided multiple continuing education seminars for physicians and social workers regarding suicide prevention and safety planning, diversity/equity/inclusion/social justice (DEIJ), and adult guardianship.
I have advanced training in self-harm/suicide, involuntary treatment/commitment, psychosis, personality disorders, HIV, substance use, LGBTQ+ related issues, trauma, grief, and homelessness. I am comfortable working with clients who actively use drugs, engage in cutting or other self-harm behaviors and clients who have recently attempted suicide. I am currently in training to be a certified sex therapist with special interest in addressing issues associated with BDSM/kink, chem sex, and non-traditional relationship structures.
My therapy style is collaborative, conversational and patient centered. With a touch of humor, I incorporate aspects of harm reduction, narrative therapy solution focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and ego psychology. I believe our pain and stress often result from being misunderstood within oppressive systems. My goal is to help individuals understand their values, strengths, and boundaries as they heal and build community, continuing life as their authentic self, liberated from the constraints and expectations of others.
You have many strengths that will help you overcome challenges, some of which you may not yet recognize. Starting or restarting therapy can take courage, and I am here to support you every step of the way.
Additional areas of focus: Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Self esteem, Bipolar disorder, Depression, BDSM, Kink, Alternative Sex Culture, Body image, Caregiver issues and stress, Chronic pain illness and disability, Co-morbidity, Commitment Issues, Domestic Violence, Drug and Alcohol Addiction, First Responder Issues, Guilt and shame, HIV / AIDS, Hospice and End of Life Counseling, Impulsivity, Men's issues, Mood disorders , Paranoia, Personality Disorders, Polyamory / Nonmonogamous Relationships, Prejudice and Discrimination, Process addiction (porn, exercise, gambling), Self-Harm, Self-love, Sex Addiction, Sexuality
Clinical approaches: Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy
HI LCSW LCSW-4449
These quotes represent just a few of the many positive reviews that we have received for Matthew Sutton. We don't pay anyone to provide their review and they are all made voluntarily. Some people's experience receiving therapy with BetterHelp might be different.
Mathew has been extremely helpful and has really taken the time to listen to my needs and my story. I really feel heard and seen and hopeful. He really pushes me to do the work in a way that makes me feel understood.
Written on Aug 22, 2024 after therapy with Matthew for 2 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, addictions, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, grief, intimacy-related issues, sleeping disorders, parenting issues, self esteem, anger management, bipolar disorder, coping with life changes, compassion f
Matt is an excellent therapist who listens attentively, provides a clear structure, pathway & space for healing, and useful tools for personal introspection & growth. He not only supports me during our sessions, but is available after & in between our sessions as well. With Matt, I am seen, heard & met where I’m at, without judgment. I am grateful to be intentionally building the future & version of myself I desire & deserve. Thank you, Matt!
Written on Aug 15, 2024 after therapy with Matthew for 2 weeks on issues concerning addictions
Matt is great and easy to talk to!
Written on Jun 21, 2024 after therapy with Matthew for 2 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, anger management, coping with life changes, and coaching