Susan Beth Atkin, 65, Had a Lifelong Passion For Classical Piano, Ballet and the Arts

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Susan Beth Atkin, known lovingly as Beth, who left this world on September 15, 2024, surrounded by the love of her family and friends. Born on March 29, 1959 in Boston, Massachusetts, to Dr. Norman Atkin and Mrs. Nancy Atkin (née Shustick), Beth spent her formative years in Hollywood, FL, and West Stockbridge, MA, where she developed her passion for classical piano, ballet and the arts, that would resonate throughout her life.

A member of the Barnard College class of 1983, Beth became an award-winning writer and photographer, publishing multiple books focusing on young people and the impact of violence, discrimination, teen pregnancy, language barriers, and firearm use, on their lives. She lectured nationwide about her books and these topics, and remained connected over the years to many of the people she profiled in her writing. Beth's books continue to be used nationally in schools, universities and libraries to foster awareness of the challenges facing America's youth.

Continuing her profound commitment to helping others, in 2008 Beth earned a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University, Los Angeles, where she went on to establish her private practice. A staunch advocate for the healing power of the arts, Beth coordinated research projects that aimed to integrate creative expression into mental health rehabilitation, particularly for incarcerated youth. Her work was marked by compassion, dedication, and a belief in the transformative power of therapy. Beth's expertise in psychotherapy was complemented by her role as a Quality Assurance Clinical Specialist at Step Up on Second.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Beth was a devoted and loyal friend whose warmth, humor, and wisdom, positively affected the lives of so many. Her ability to listen and provide insightful, loving guidance made her an invaluable and trusted confidante. Beth leaves behind a legacy of compassion and resilience, cherished memories, and a prodigious community of friends and colleagues who were privileged to know her. She is survived by her loving brothers, Jeffrey Scott Atkin of Lee, MA., and Michael Bruce Atkin of Castaic CA, her sister-in laws Jeanne and Gail and nieces, Julia, Jesse, and Lindsey and nephew Matthew.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Beth's memory to one of the following organizations: Alliance For Children's Rights, Farmworker Justice or Planned Parenthood, reflecting her dedication to children's, women's and farmworker's rights.

A Celebration of life will be held on October 27th online, where all who knew and loved Beth are invited to honor her extraordinary life. Here's the link to the Zoom memorial

https://us05web.zoom.us/j/88962688048?pwd=DD68bQj0qDAukJXhvWkp1DRBVbJ1c7.1

Meeting ID: 889 6268 8048

Passcode: 5K2ZH8