Valeria Aquino
Integrative psychotherapistAbout Me
Psychotherapy offers an invitation to speak, as freely and truthfully as you like. Regarding the things in your life that are most important to you. Therapy isn’t easy nor is it a quick fix. It is something that takes commitment, time, and pacing. This is something I can help you with. Part of the commitment is our working together. I can offer a complimentary chat where you can share your story, ask questions, and most importantly, see if we click. Feeling at ease and supported in therapy is essential, and this initial chat allows us to establish that foundation.
My philosophy is to honor the uniqueness of each client, I believe you are the expert in yourself, and you set the pace. I will help you to explore different thoughts and feelings, offer appropriate interventions, help you look at patterns and create coping mechanisms that work for you.
Therapy is a safe space for you to talk about things affecting you with someone who is not a part of your life. It is space to process things and gain a different perspective. A space to be supported and felt seen and heard. A space for you to use, in whatever way you need (I will help you figure this out). In short this is a space for you to be your complete authentic self.
I specialise in body-orientated approaches. This is something I am also very passionate about. Working in this way helps you understand, express and integrate your individual experiences, when trying to communicate through just words isn’t enough. Working in this way can help cultivate more awareness of your needs, and how they might be met. As a therapist, I view every person’s story as a potent force for self-discovery and self-renewal. By working creatively and collaboratively with you, I hope to breathe fresh life into your outdated narratives and turn dramatic life moments into important opportunities for providing meaning and personal growth.
Issues often worked with
Therapy offered
Client groups
Fees
£65
Training and qualifications
I have been practicing therapy since 2019. I have a lot of experience in working with a diverse range of adults and young people, in voluntary sectors, and in private practice settings. I am an Integrative therapist currently doing an MA in Gestalt therapy. I also studied Psychology (BSc), focusing on clinical and social psychology (University of Cordoba, 1993).
I split my practice between working one-to-one with individuals and facilitating wellbeing groups with women and young refugees and asylum seekers.
Prior to counselling I worked in residential settings and in the community supporting people in recovery with complex mental health difficulties and those who have complex trauma. For the last 20 years I have been committed to working in mental health services, with people experiencing a range of issues.
I would describe my approach as humanistic and integrative. My style is embodied, relational and creative. Alongside Gestalt, I also draw from disciplines like Neuroscience, Somatic and Sensorimotor therapies to meet and support the different situations my clients present. I understand the significance of the mind-body connection in healing and how important the therapeutic relationship is for nourishing the environment for this connection to occur. I am especially focussed on using embodiment and a creative method approach to therapy, where we look at issues of culture and difference; and the role of therapy in the service of social justice and equality.
I am trauma-informed, attachment-focused, and deeply committed to an antiracist, anti-oppressive practice.
I support clients who face a range of challenges in their day to day lives these including anxiety, depression, work-related stress, relationship difficulties, sexuality issues and bereavement/loss.
I am fully insured and I work to the Codes of Ethics and Practice of BACP ( British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapist
Verified professional membership
