Rate Matthew Sutton

Starting therapy can take courage, and I’m here to support you through every phase of your journey.

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 working as a mental health therapist, case manager, and mental health crisis clinician in two Level 1 trauma hospitals, as well as managing clinical programs. I’ve also provided continuing education seminars for physicians and social workers on topics such as suicide prevention and safety planning, diversity/equity/inclusion/social justice (DEIJ), and adult guardianship.

I have advanced training in working with self-harm, suicide, involuntary treatment, psychosis, personality disorders, HIV, substance use, LGBTQ+ issues, trauma, grief, and homelessness. I am comfortable working with clients who actively use drugs, engage in self-harm behaviors, or have recently attempted suicide. Currently, I’m in training to become a certified sex therapist with a focus on issues related to BDSM/kink, chem sex, and non-traditional relationship structures.

My therapy style is collaborative, conversational, and patient-centered. I bring a touch of humor to the process and integrate approaches from harm reduction, narrative therapy, solution-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and ego psychology. I believe much of our pain and stress stems from being misunderstood within oppressive systems. My goal is to help you understand your values, strengths, and boundaries as you heal and build community, living authentically and free from the constraints and expectations of others.