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Valerie Smith
About
Hi there! I’m Valerie Smith, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New York with more than 12 years of experience in behavioral health. I support neurodivergent individuals navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, and major life transitions. As someone who is neurodivergent myself, I understand that this experience can bring challenges alongside gifts, including resourcefulness and ingenuity in finding solutions. My lived experience informs my appreciation for the different ways people think, feel, and move through the world.
My approach is compassionate and collaborative, grounded in the belief that meaningful healing begins with feeling heard, respected, and understood. I draw on EMDR, DBT, CBT, and ACT to tailor care to your individual needs and experiences while affirming your identity. Together, we can make space for what you’re carrying, build on your strengths, and work toward greater balance, connection, and growth.
My motivation for working with autistic and other neurodivergent clients is personal. As a neurodivergent person myself, I have experienced struggles, but I have also found opportunities to blossom by developing practical, creative ways to navigate life. These experiences inspire me to offer a space where you can feel understood, affirm your identity, and explore what works for you. I recognize that your experience will be uniquely your own, and I bring curiosity, compassion, and collaboration to our work together. My goal is to help you navigate challenges, recognize your strengths, and build a life that honors who you are.
I begin by getting to know you, including your interests, values, strengths, and the ways you already thrive despite what your life throws at you. I appreciate that resourcefulness, innovativeness, and resilience can take many forms, including ones that have gone unrecognized by others. I listen with curiosity and compassion, affirm your identity, and make room for you to express yourself authentically. Together, we build on what works for you and explore practical strategies that fit your needs. Your goals guide our work, with an emphasis on helping you recognize your capabilities, trust yourself, and grow in ways that feel meaningful to you.
