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About
Valerie
Drawing from a wellspring of experience as a therapist, I consider it a true privilege to support and gently guide my clients on their journeys toward healing, growth, and transformation. I approach both life and the healing process holistically, recognizing the deep connection between the mind, body, and spirit. With compassion and collaboration, I embrace the uniqueness of each client, considering each one’s personality, strengths, and cultural background.
I hold a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and a Master's degree in Professional Counseling. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Connecticut and hold the title of Heilpraktikerin für Psychotherapie (HPG) in Germany. I am currently pursuing a Psychotherapy Diploma in Existential Analysis, which has profoundly enriched my therapeutic approach.
Originally from a small town in Connecticut, my life and work have taken me across the globe. I bring extensive experience connecting with people from a wide range of social backgrounds, nationalities, cultures, and faiths. Along the way, I’ve had the privilege of living and working in diverse places -- from the vibrant cities of Boston and London to the Czech Republic, Indonesia, France, and Germany -- each offering unique cultural insights and deepening my appreciation for the resilience and beauty of people around the world.
In keeping with my passion for offering culturally sensitive, compassionate care, I founded East to West Counseling in 2019 -- a practice community of international mental health providers.
On a personal note, I have been living in Europe since 2002, where I share my life with my Austrian husband and our two daughters.
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Credentials
Licensure
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Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) - Connecticut, USA
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Licensed Practitioner of Psychotherapy (HpG) - Stuttgart, Germany
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Qualifications​​
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Psychotherapy Diploma in Existential Analysis (in progress) - GLE-International - Vienna / London
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M.Sc. ​Existential Analysis (in progress) - Paris Lodron Universität Salzburg, Austria
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M.A. Professional Counseling - Liberty University, USA
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B.A. Psychology, minor in Sociology - Central Connecticut State University, USA
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A.A. Human Services - Lasell University (formerly College), Newton, MA, USA​
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Additional Training​
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EMDR - EMDR Institute (Completed Basic Training)
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Attachment-focused EMDR for Healing Relational Trauma and Adults Abused in Childhood
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Trauma Treatment Certification
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Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional (CIMHP)
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Foundations of Logotherapy - The Viktor Frankl Institute of Logotherapy
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Certified Prepare - Enrich facilitator ​
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As an avid lifelong learner, I enjoy keeping up with the most recent research in the field of psychology. I continually participate in seminars and other educational opportunities to expand my understanding of the human experience. Guided by an existential holistic approach, I am particularly interested in the connections between neuroscience, psychology, and ancient spiritual practices, which inform my work with treating anxiety, depression, and trauma.
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