Christiana Valko, LMHC

I am a New York State licensed psychotherapist and clinical supervisor. I am committed to safety, respect, and inclusivity in therapy by upholding trauma-informed care, multicultural competency, and establishing collaborative working alliances with all clients. I value the courage of those she has the privilege to work with and believes in their ability to create meaningful change in their lives. With all people, I center warmth, empathy, and compassion. In individual therapy, my process is integrative and collaborative. I utilize an insight-oriented approach that invites clients to freely explore aspects of the self and their personal history with non-judgment, compassion, and curiosity. I am attuned to the needs of my clients and strives to identify not only patterns that emerge but personal strengths and resiliency factors. From this place, I empower clients to make conscious choices in alignment with their values and wellbeing. Clinical populations in individual therapy include adolescents and adults experiencing: trauma, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, depression, personality disorders, eating disorders, in addition to concerns related to relationships or identity. I am trained in various evidence-based treatments and appropriately integrates these modalities as needed. Such interventions include: exposure and response prevention (ERP), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and psychodynamic therapy. I am certified through the HeartMath Foundation to conduct biofeedback therapy. In group therapy, I facilitate intensive trauma processing and recovery work. A structured frame safely guides clients on their healing journey while establishing community and a sense of belonging. I have obtained a Master of Science degree in Mental Health Counseling from Pace University and is a National Certified Counselor (NCC). Previously a professional dancer, I have extensive knowledge of the mind-body connection and am skilled at integrating somatic interventions for my clients. I view the work of therapy as an art form that I am both committed to and continuously inspired by.