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Hello . . . My name is Tracy Valerio and I've been a licensed therapist in California for 20+ years. My experience ranges from working with individuals, couples, children, and families across many diverse backgrounds, including racial, socioeconomic, geographic, and academic/professional backgrounds. My focus more recently has been helping those with anxiety and/or depression as it is affecting their personal and professional relationships with others, parenting support, relationship struggles, and support when living with a disability or having a family member with a disability. My key strength as a therapist has nothing to do with my education or training', but more to do with my natural skill of building a deep connection with those I meet. In my view, it's all about the relationship!
My approach
My approach to therapy is primarily humanistic. This approach emphasizes my client's capacity to make the best decisions about their situation and their lives for themselves, and therefore help them reach their maximum potential. I utilize a client-centered approach, where I am not the authority, but instead partner with my clients, witnessing their experience fully, and helping clients change by emphasizing their concern, care, and interest.
My focus
I currently work with adult clients for individual therapy. I primarily have clients that experience anxiety and/or depression and/or are struggling in their relationships personally and/or professionally. In addition, I am experienced in providing parenting support for families that are struggling with emotional or behavioral issues with a child(ren). I also work with clients that have a disability or are caring for a child with a disability (specifically those with type 1 diabetes or a learning difference/dyslexia).
My communication style
I like to think that I create a comfortable environment for my clients, where you are comfortable being yourself (fully) and have the ability to be open and honest (with yourself). My goal is to create a judgment-free zone with care, support, and empathy. Our sessions will likely have a range of emotions, including laughter. Sometimes laughter truly is the best medicine.
My goals for you
I approach goal setting by allowing the client to share their current experience and their primary reason for therapy and allow them to discuss what their ideal outcome of therapy is. I then will manage those expectations, to ensure they are realistic and within a proper time span.
My first session with you
The first session will be a chance for each of us to get to know one another. I will ask some questions about what brought you to therapy, what your main concerns are, some history about your life and family, and what you'd like to accomplish during our time together. This is also a chance for you to ask any questions you have about therapy and our time together.
