Hello! I’m Aida Valerio-Lerner. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who found my calling 11 years ago having discovered that I wanted to provide people with a therapeutic space to heal, grow, and ultimately transform. Are you going through a personal challenge or major life transition? Do you need a safe space to have your experiences affirmed and validated? Do you feel overwhelmed by your emotions and in need of support? Have you considered speaking to someone but are unsure of how to begin? Wherever you are in your journey, I want to congratulate you on exploring possibilities to receive help. Therapy, like anything new or unknown, can feel scary. When Wendy was learning how to fly in Peter Pan, her fear of “what if I fall?” was met with Peter’s response of “oh, darling, what if you fly?” Not only did she fly, but she also transformed! My therapeutic approach is gentle, warm, and trauma-informed to ensure your comfort every step of the way. I listen attentively and non-judgmentally, welcoming your authentic self. You can express yourself in English and/or Spanish as I am fluent in both languages. Together, we can overcome anything.
During the first session, we will discuss what the client is most comfortable with sharing and exploring. The first session should not feel intense and instead, a slow introduction to their therapy journey.
I have a holistic approach to therapy. I am a bilingual and bicultural therapist and when I work with individuals or families, I think about how systems impact race, racism, and gender identity. I believe in allowing space for a client's identity to be heard. My passion is bringing quality and affordable mental health services to communities that otherwise are unable to afford such services.
I enjoy working with clients who are just getting started in their careers or transitioning into life milestones.
I have been in practice for 4 years now and have been using a mindfulness based approach. I guide clients while they share their own individual journey. What they want to change, we discuss and create a plan around making the change.