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I specialize in helping clients navigating trauma, anxiety, panic disorder, depression, LGBTQ+ issues, grief, & much more. I earned my MSW from New York University in 2011 and have worked as a forensic social worker in NYC at The Legal Aid Society & have also worked with Gay Men's Health Crisis, Services for the Underserved, Footsteps & Office of the Appellate Defender. I moved to Los Angeles in 2017 and have been in private practice since 2018.

Welcome! If you’re feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or disconnected, you don’t have to go through it alone. I offer a warm, supportive space where you can slow down, make sense of your experiences, and begin to feel more in control.

I specialize in helping individuals work through all forms of anxiety, depression, PTSD, and trauma, as well as complex interpersonal issues such as navigating difficult family dynamics, healing from narcissistic abuse, or rebuilding after domestic violence.

I have 18 years experience working with teens, adults and later in life populations.

What was your path to becoming a mental health provider?

I always had a desire to understand people and didn't realize there was a profession centered around my curiosity until college. I was also very intrigued with trying to understand my emotions growing up and because I struggled, I developed a desire to help others through their life challenges. I started providing support services to families and volunteers through a mentoring agency, which later led to interning at a psychiatric outpatient facility, to working with foster children providing therapy and to also growing my private practice here with Alma working with adults and children.

What should someone know about working with you?

I believe I am relatable and open to the sharing of myself with the understanding and expectation that you will be entrusting your vulnerabilities with me in session. I will challenge your thoughts, your patterns and your assumptions, and I give homework routinely as an extension of our time together to keep you active and engaged until we meet again.

How do you continue learning and building new skills?

I am committed to being a life-long learner. I take courses and trainings annually, listen to and learn from seasoned clinicians and try to stay afloat of new groundbreaking research related to treatments and techniques surrounding mental health.

"Success for me, is helping others create the wellness they desire."

Life can feel overwhelming at times, and reaching out for support is a courageous step. I am dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care in a safe, nonjudgmental environment where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and challenges openly. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, life transitions, or other personal concerns, my goal is to help you feel heard, understood, and supported.

Hi, I share a home office with my four-legged boy, Jack. He is a pedigree mutt who helps keep me grounded during my workday. We help people with a variety of issues, and specialize in working with people who have lived through or are currently living through trauma. Big Ts that everyone recognizes as traumatic experiences, and Subtle Ts that people are often told to "just get over."

I’m a laid-back and easygoing person who genuinely enjoys helping others. In my free time, you’ll often find me reading a good book, trying a new coffee drink, or spending time with friends. I believe it’s so important to identify the things that bring you joy and meaning, and I’m passionate about helping others discover those things for themselves.

Becoming a therapist has been one of the most meaningful and impactful parts of my life. I value meeting people exactly where they are and walking alongside them in their healing journey. I’ve often been described as a great listener and someone who is open-minded and nonjudgmental—qualities I intentionally bring into every session.

My goal is to provide steady support, encouragement, and perspective as my clients navigate the complexities of life. It’s a privilege to be invited into someone’s story, and I don’t take that responsibility lightly.

Hello, I am Darlene Neal, a Licensed Independent Social Worker with 35 years of experience. My clinical work has been devoted to Depression, Anxiety, Grief and Life Transitions.

Great to meet you! I am an independently licensed therapist in both Ohio and Florida with over 15 years of experience helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and rediscover their sense of purpose, strength, and well-being.

Throughout my career as a director, clinical supervisor, and counselor, I have had the privilege of working with clients from all walks of life who are seeking balance, clarity, and growth. I specialize in supporting first responders and military veterans, as well as adults dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem concerns, career challenges, grief, addiction, substance abuse, and other mental health difficulties.

My therapeutic style is open, genuine, accepting, nonjudgmental, and collaborative. I believe in meeting you where you are—with compassion, respect, and authenticity. Clients often describe me as straightforward yet warm, offering both empathy and honest feedback to help foster meaningful progress.

Hello, I'm Valerie. Whether you're new to therapy or looking for a fresh start with a new therapist, I'm here to provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can explore life's challenges. Together, we'll work to better understand what's holding you back, build on your strengths, and develop practical tools to help you move forward with confidence.

I'm a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW-S) in the State of Ohio and a Certified Case Manager. I hold a bachelor degrees in Criminal Justice and Child and Family Studies, as well as a Master of Social Work. My goal is to help you feel heard, supported, and empowered as we work toward meaningful, lasting change.

I have been working in the mental health / social services field for over 20 years which has afforded me the opportunity to work with people from all walks of life during both good times as well as challenging ones. For the first 15 years I worked in direct service and for the last 6, I've been in various leadership roles helping those under my supervision better the lives of those individuals they work with.