My Approach to Helping
As a first-generation woman of color, I understand the barriers to maintaining mental wellness, experiencing overall life satisfaction, and overcoming obstacles related to cultural, racial, and gender norms.
Pooja Vala is a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern who has 4 years of experience working with adults and children in a therapeutic capacity to manage depression, anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), trauma, life stressors, psychosis, and family conflict. Pooja completed her Bachelor of Science (BS) in Psychology with a minor in Sociology at the University of Florida. She completed her Master of Science (MS) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of North Florida. Pooja uses an eclectic approach to therapy, primarily using cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavior, and person-centered techniques to meet the therapeutic desires of her clients. She likes to bring awareness of the therapist-client relationship into her therapy sessions as a way to focus on the specific needs of her clients and what they hope to gain out of their time in therapy. Pooja's goal is to make clients feel as safe as possible when entering the therapeutic space. She strives to develop a real connection with her clients and build on their strengths in order to help them process difficult emotions, develop healthy coping skills, and improve their life satisfaction.