Heather Valentino, LCSW
LCS#23549
Specializing in treating eating disorders, trauma, self-harm,
Veteran issues, and Christian counseling.
ABOUT ME
I graduated from California State University, Long Beach with a Bachelor’s degree in child development and family studies, and a minor in psychology. Upon completing my undergraduate work, I went on to pursue my Masters in Social Work (MSW) from the University of California, Los Angeles. I became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in 2006 and am currently working toward becoming a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist. I have experience working at the outpatient, day treatment, and residential levels of care.
I have worked in a variety of settings throughout my career. I was fortunate to begin my clinical career at Harbor UCLA working in various outpatient settings and then transitioned from the outpatient level of care to the day treatment level at The Guidance Center in Long Beach, CA, working with a collaboration between the Department of Mental health and the Long Beach Unified School District.
In efforts to diversify and strengthen my knowledge breath, I focused my experience in the treatment of eating disorders at the residential treatment level at the Center for Discovery. As a primary therapist, I worked as part of a treatment team consisting of a medical doctor, a nutritionist, nurses, and other therapists to help our clients gain strength, both emotionally and physically. In this setting, I was able to witness the full range of the effects of eating disorders and I was honored to support these young people in their healing process.
Therapy is designed to promote total health by addressing your spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical needs. The relationship between a client and a therapist can be as healing as the Therapeutic techniques provided during the session.
My approach to therapy is informed by attachment theory, cognitive behavioral theory, family systems theory, and psychoanalytic theory. In addition, I am trained in several evidence based therapies utilized in the treatment of trauma.
Therapeutic Philosophy
SERVICES & SCHEDULING
I provide short and long-term individual and family therapy. I see adults and teens over 14-years-old. Sessions are 50 minutes long. Sessions can be scheduled on Mondays and Saturdays. My office is freeway close and conveniently located in the city of Los Alamitos, just east of Long Beach.
Each therepeutic session is $125. Certain services for Veterans can be provided through the non-profit organization Give an Hour. All forms of payment are accepted. Certain insurances are accepted, please check with your provider. All insurance benefits wil be verified prior to the commencement of treatment.
