Valerie Lees

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s degree in Social Work from Columbia University and 34 years of experience in the mental health field. I specialize in working with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, and life transitions, as well as couples who want to strengthen their connection and improve communication. I am also a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP) and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), reflecting my advanced training in treating anxiety and trauma. I have a genuine passion for helping people move beyond the struggles that have been holding them back and become stronger, more confident, and more grounded in who they truly are. My style is warm, supportive, down-to-earth, and collaborative, while also providing practical tools clients can use in their everyday lives. My approach draws primarily from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and I incorporate the Gottman Method in my work with couples.

believe therapy works best when clients feel genuinely heard, understood, and comfortable being themselves. My approach is warm, supportive, collaborative, and down-to-earth. Together, we will identify the patterns, thoughts, and experiences that may be keeping you stuck while building practical skills to help you feel more confident, emotionally grounded, and in control of your life. I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach, so I tailor our work to your individual needs, goals, and strengths. I will support and encourage you while also gently challenging you when needed, helping you gain new perspectives and make meaningful, lasting changes. Above all, my goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can feel empowered to grow into the strongest and most authentic version of yourself. My certifications in treating anxiety and trauma assist in helping you reach your full potential.

Your first session is really about helping you feel comfortable, heard, and understood. I know that opening up to someone new can feel intimidating, so there is no expectation that you share more than you are ready to. We’ll spend time talking about what brought you to therapy, what has been going on in your life, and what you would most like to change or improve. I’ll ask questions to help me better understand you and your experiences, but our conversation will feel relaxed and collaborative rather than like an interview. Most importantly, I want you to leave that first session feeling that you have a safe place to be yourself and that we have a clear sense of what you would like us to work toward together.