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Headshot of Valerie Francois Ford, LCSW

Valerie Francois Ford

Therapist
~1 year of experience
  • Virtual
  • Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Relationship issues, Trauma, Diabetes
  • Individual therapy

Great to meet you!

For 11 years, I have sat with people at some of the hardest moments of their lives, from

medical crises to the quieter weight of anxiety, depression, and relationship strain. I bring a

collaborative, nonjudgmental presence because the best work happens when you feel

genuinely heard. If you are ready to start, I would love to meet you.

My approach to therapy

I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you spot and shift the thought patterns that

keep you stuck, Motivational Interviewing to explore your own reasons for change without

pressure, and a Strength-Based lens that starts from what is already working in your life.

Sessions feel like a real conversation. I ask questions, listen closely, and offer tools you can

actually use between appointments. We move at your pace, and I follow your lead on what

matters most.

What you can expect from me

In our first session, we will spend most of our time talking through what brought you here and

what you are hoping to change. I will ask about your background and what has and has not

worked for you before. You do not need to have everything figured out before we meet. Most

clients leave that first appointment feeling relieved that they finally said it out loud.

About me

  • I identify as
    Black or African descent, Woman
  • My style is
    Open Minded, Warm, Empowering

Qualification and insurance

  • Years of experience
    ~1 year of experience
  • Training
    MSW (Master of Social Work) at Stony Brook University
  • License type
    LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) (New York)
  • Licensed in
  • Insurance accepted
    Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Carelon Behavioral Health, Cigna, Highmark BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York, Highmark BlueShield of Northeastern New York, Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Jersey, Independence Blue Cross Pennsylvania - Virtual National Network

Cost

Care details

  • Top specialties
    Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Relationship issues, Trauma, Diabetes
  • More specialties
    Substance use / addiction, Stress management, End of life care, Grief or loss, Physical health issues, Maternal mental health, Women's issues, Identity issues, PTSD, Chronic conditions
  • Therapy methods
    Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Strength-Based, Motivational Interviewing
  • Care types
    Individual therapy
  • Ages served
    Seniors, Adults
  • Languages
    English