Valerie Long

I currently have some free time in the week but I will work with you to find a time that is suitable for you.

I am Valerie Long, an accredited BACP counsellor with over nine years of professional experience. I offer a safe, confidential, and non-judgemental space where you can explore whatever is important to you, at your own pace.

My work is grounded in the person-centred approach, which means I see you as the expert in your own life and story. I follow your lead in therapy, trusting that through self-exploration, insight, and reflection, growth and fulfilment can emerge. This process often helps clients feel better about themselves and feel more empowered to lead the lives they want.

At the heart of my practice is the belief that being truly heard, accepted, and understood can be deeply healing. I aim to offer a warm, trusting relationship where you feel able to bring all parts of yourself without fear of judgement. I accept clients exactly as they are and work with compassion, patience, and respect.

My work is trauma-informed, meaning I have a strong understanding of how trauma can live in the body and mind, and how it can impact daily life, relationships, and self-esteem. I work sensitively and at a pace that feels safe for you.

Clients often describe me as kind, calm, patient, diligent, compassionate, and professional.

If you’re considering counselling and wondering whether I might be the right therapist for you, you’re welcome to get in touch. I’m happy to answer any questions you may have and to explore whether working together feels like a good fit. Taking the first step can feel daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone.

I am accredited counsellor with BACP and in my practice I work with clients aged 18 and over right through to people at retirement age. I am not able to provide counselling to any person who is under the age of 18. I offer a service which is welcoming to all backgrounds in a supportive and non-discriminatory manner. I can provide face to face sessions or via video (online) eg Zoom, or via email  (I also hold a diploma for online counselling).

I understand that often when clients first approach for counselling, it can be a daunting prospect especially when it is a totally new experience .  I offer a space that is confidential and safe, and in this first session we can work together to find out if we are a good fit for each other.  It will be a relaxed environment where I will explain some of the basics around counselling, what you need to know and how I work ethically to ensure your safety at all times.  I might ask you at this stage what has brought you to counselling to get an overview of your presenting issues.  I will go with you at your pace, and whatever you are able to say at this point.