Valerie Stanley-Brooks , BACP

Valerie Stanley-Brooks is a UK-credentialed counsellor and a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). With 25 years of clinical experience, she offers evidence-informed counselling and psychotherapy to young people, adults, and couples, bringing calm, clarity, and practical support to those facing difficult life chapters.

Her work spans educational, therapeutic, and voluntary settings, which has given her experience with a wide range of backgrounds and needs. Valerie uses an integrative approach that draws on several therapeutic models, allowing her to tailor client-centred and holistic care to each person she meets. She combines clinical knowledge with empathy to help clients move through issues at a pace that suits them.

Valerie helps with a broad set of concerns, including stress and anxiety, depression, grief and bereavement, trauma and abuse, addictions, low self-esteem, relationship and family difficulties, parenting challenges, career and life transitions, and issues around eating and sleeping. She also supports couples in repairing trust, improving communication, rebuilding emotional connection, and strengthening bonds.

Recognising that beginning therapy can feel daunting, Valerie emphasizes a non-judgmental, supportive relationship and provides a range of resources and materials to complement sessions. She is accepting new clients, including international clients, and offers flexible options to begin the therapeutic process when clients feel ready.

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Support

Valerie integrates client-centred work and trauma-focused methods to guide people toward greater wellbeing. Client-centred therapy focuses on creating an empathic, accepting environment where the client leads the pace and content of sessions - this approach helps with self-esteem, life transitions, and emotional overwhelm. Trauma-focused therapy addresses the effects of abuse and traumatic experiences with targeted strategies to reduce distress and build coping skills, which can be particularly useful for those managing past harm or complex trauma.

Finding the best approach is a collaborative process. Valerie works with each person to understand their needs, goals, and preferences, and she tailors her use of therapeutic models accordingly so the plan feels relevant and achievable for the individual or couple.

Online therapy offers practical flexibility and makes it easier to attend sessions around work, family, and other commitments. Clients can meet by video call or phone for real-time conversation, or use live chat and text-based messaging when that format suits their communication style. These options increase accessibility and support continuity of care while allowing therapists and licensed professionals to adapt pacing and techniques to the online setting.