As a multi-state BIPOC licensed professional counselor with extensive experience in various treatment modalities, I specialize in providing virtual therapy services to adolescents and adults. My practice focuses on addressing a wide range of mental health challenges. Over the years, I have honed my clinical skills to effectively assess and treat the complex psychological and emotional impacts of trauma. I am dedicated to utilizing evidence-based approaches tailored to the virtual therapy setting, ensuring that clients receive compassionate and comprehensive support from the comfort and convenience of their own environment. My therapeutic approach integrates a deep understanding of trauma, mood disorders, cultural sensitivity, and ethical considerations, fostering a safe and healing space where clients can explore their experiences and work towards healing and recovery. Through collaborative and client-centered therapy, I aim to empower individuals to regain a sense of control, resilience, and hope in their lives. I am committed to ongoing professional development and strive to stay abreast of the latest advancements in trauma treatment to provide the highest standard of care to my clients. In my virtual practice, I emphasize the importance of creating a therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect, facilitating meaningful therapeutic work that supports clients in achieving their goals and improving their overall well-being.

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

For a successful first session in virtual mental health therapy, several key factors contribute to a positive experience: 1. Working Equipment Ready for Telehealth: - Ensure that your computer, tablet, or smartphone is set up and functioning properly with stable internet connectivity. - Test audio and video capabilities in advance to avoid technical issues during the session. - Familiarize yourself with the telehealth platform or software being used to facilitate a smooth start to the session. 2. Privacy and Comfortable Environment: - Choose a quiet and private space where you can comfortably discuss personal matters without interruptions. - Minimize distractions and ensure confidentiality to create a conducive environment for open communication. - Consider using headphones or earphones to enhance privacy and focus during the session. 3. Willingness and Motivation to Be Open for Change: - Approach the session with an open mind and a readiness to explore personal challenges and goals. - Express your motivation for seeking therapy and your willingness to actively engage in the therapeutic process. - Be prepared to discuss your expectations for therapy and what you hope to achieve, fostering a collaborative relationship with your therapist. By ensuring your equipment is prepared, your environment is conducive to privacy, and you approach the session with openness and motivation, you set a strong foundation for productive and effective virtual mental health therapy. This allows both you and your therapist to focus on exploring your concerns, developing goals, and beginning the journey towards positive change and personal growth.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

Being a BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, Person of Color) licensed professional counselor brings several strengths and unique perspectives to the field: Cultural Competence and Understanding: BIPOC counselors often possess firsthand cultural knowledge and understanding of the experiences, values, and challenges specific to their communities. This allows them to provide culturally responsive care that respects and integrates clients' cultural identities into the therapeutic process. Representation and Role Modeling: Serving as a role model for clients from diverse backgrounds, BIPOC counselors can inspire hope and trust by demonstrating success and resilience within their professional roles. This representation can empower clients to feel understood and validated, enhancing therapeutic rapport and outcomes. Advocacy and Empowerment: BIPOC counselors are often advocates for social justice and equity within mental health care. They may actively work to address systemic barriers and promote inclusivity, both within their practice and in broader mental health initiatives. This advocacy can create a more supportive and accessible environment for BIPOC clients seeking mental health services. Intersectionality and Multicultural Competence: BIPOC counselors may navigate and understand the intersections of race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, and other identities that impact mental health. This intersectional awareness enables them to provide nuanced and comprehensive care that considers the complexities of clients' identities and experiences. Enhanced Empathy and Connection: BIPOC counselors often bring a deep empathy and connection to their work with clients who may face racial or ethnic discrimination, marginalization, or intergenerational trauma. This empathy can foster a therapeutic alliance built on mutual understanding, validation, and trust. Cultural Humility and Continuous Learning: BIPOC counselors often prioritize ongoing learning and reflection on cultural humility. They strive to continuously expand their knowledge and skills to better serve diverse populations, recognizing the importance of cultural competence in effective therapy. Overall, being a BIPOC licensed professional counselor is a strength that enriches the field of mental health by promoting diversity, inclusivity, and culturally competent care. It allows for more holistic and responsive approaches to addressing the mental health needs of individuals fr

About Tracye Freeman Valentine