Hi, I’m Val

Here is some basic information about me. If you are looking for a more in-depth description of my credentials and experience, you can find that further down on the page.

  • My title is Licensed Clinical Social Worker, also commonly referred to as a therapist or counselor.

  • The treatments I am trained in and most frequently use consist of a mix of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT); Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT); Motivational Interviewing (MI); and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).

  • Words used to describe me as a therapist: supportive, validating, down-to-earth, straight forward, caring, relatable, insightful, and non-judgmental.

  • I started my own practice in 2019 as a side gig outside of my 9-5 job. In late 2022, I decided to leave my 9-5 job to pursue my own practice full time. This has given me more flexibility for my schedule as well as my clients’. Thanks to this transition, I am able to dedicate my time and skills to clients that align with my specialties.

  • I am also the co-founder of a Behavioral Health and Wellness Consulting agency, Aligned Clinical LCSW Consulting, LLC

Valerie Lighthall

This is what you’ll see when you log on to your Telehealth appointment

If you have made it this far on my website, you probably already know that I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. But, have you ever wondered what exactly that entails? Being an LCSW- R in New York state signifies that I hold a Master’s Degree in Social Work; specializing in diagnosing and treating individuals. Furthermore, it indicates that I have successfully completed two clinical licensing exams and acquired at least six years of hands-on experience under supervision in working with clients.

Since earning my Master’s Degree in 2010, I have gained valuable experience in various settings such as Outpatient Community Mental Health Centers, the New York State Office of Mental Health in an inpatient forensic environment, Employee Assistance Programs, and the Behavioral Health Department within a hospital system. In these roles, my responsibilities include: providing program development and implementation, individual and group psychotherapy services, conducting crisis assessments, offering trauma work and debriefing, and providing clinical supervision.

Get started with Valerie, today.

Click below to book a free 15 minute telephone chat with me; or schedule your first appointment if you are ready to get started.