Suma Karandikar

Suma is a Certified Gottman Therapist, the highest level of training offered by the Gottman Institute. Over the course of a rigorous three-year program, she was personally trained and supervised by Drs. John and Julie Gottman in what is widely considered the most effective, research-based approach to couples therapy.

Through this intensive training, Suma developed:

• Mastery of the Gottman Method, including advanced assessment tools and interventions proven to strengthen communication, deepen emotional connection, and resolve long-standing patterns

• Expertise in guiding couples through high-conflict moments, rebuilding trust, and restoring intimacy

• A structured, action-oriented style that helps partners learn concrete, science-backed skills they can use immediately

In addition to certification, Suma has completed the Gottman advanced training course, Treating Affairs and Trauma — a specialized program that focuses on healing betrayal, supporting trauma recovery within a relationship, and helping couples rebuild safety and connection after rupture.

Suma integrates all of this with her warm, grounded therapeutic presence, offering couples a deeply supportive and evidence-based pathway toward stronger, healthier, and more fulfilling relationships.

Suma has undergone specialized training in Discernment Counseling through the Doherty Relationship Institute, a focused and short-term therapy designed for couples who are unsure about the future of their relationship. Developed by Dr. William Doherty at the University of Minnesota, this evidence-based approach was created specifically for "mixed-agenda" couples — where one partner is leaning toward ending the relationship while the other hopes to preserve it.

Through this training, Suma has gained a deep understanding of how to help couples navigate the difficult decision of whether to stay together or separate. Rather than jumping straight into traditional couples therapy, Discernment Counseling first helps both partners slow down, gain clarity, and explore whether their relationship challenges are solvable. By providing a neutral, non-judgmental space for both partners, Suma empowers them to explore their feelings, understand their individual contributions to relationship difficulties, and make a well-informed, confident decision about their future — whether that means committing to couples therapy, separating, or taking more time to decide.

This specialized certification complements Suma's extensive background in couples therapy and enables her to offer a truly unique approach for those facing relationship uncertainty — one that meets couples exactly where they are, without pressure or predetermined outcomes.

Suma has extensive post-graduate training in the assessment and treatment of Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs). In additional to the Postpartum Support International training, Suma has gone on to complete Karen Kleiman's landmark postgraduate clinical training in PMADs. Suma is a member of Postpartum Support International.

The Compassionate Bereavement Care Certification® is an intensive four day training program through The MISS Foundation. The Miss Foundation is an international nonprofit group which aids parents whose children die. Related, Suma also has experience in grief and loss work specific to miscarriage, stillbirth and infant loss and has completed The Perinatal Loss - A Framework for Healing certificate course.

Suma is a Level One trained Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapist. She uses this evidence-based, non-pathologizing model to help clients understand and heal the different parts of themselves. Through IFS, she guides clients in accessing their core Self — the calm, compassionate center within — to reduce inner conflict, build emotional regulation, and create lasting change.

Suma has undergone specialized training and certification in the field of premarital counseling through the Prepare and Enrich program. She possess expertise in utilizing the Prepare and Enrich assessment tools and interventions to guide couples in building strong foundations for their marriages.

Suma participated in the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction program (MBSR) based on Dr. Kabat-Zinn's U-Mass Medical Center model. This program imparts mindfulness skills through body awareness exercises, sitting and walking meditation, and gentle hatha yoga. Suma integrates mindfulness techniques to assist individuals in their healing journey.

Suma feels passionate about the benefits of EMDR.

Suma formerly served on the Board of Directors as the Chair of Education and Training for Postpartum Support International, a leading organization that researches and advocates for women’s mental health and therapeutic intervention. Suma continues to be a member of Postpartum Support International.