Hi! My name is Michelle Valdner and I’m a psychotherapist, yoga instructor, nature lover, fitness enthusiast, and most importantly a fellow human on this journey of life. I work with individuals who are seeking relief from anxiety. Anxiety reveals itself in many ways, physical tension, irritability, overwhelm, excessive worry, obsessive thoughts, and debilitating fear. You may even have trouble trying to find the words to describe how you’re really feeling. All you know is that you want to feel better, less stressed, happier, and more in control.
Life is tough enough these days and you don’t have to go through these heavy feelings alone. I view myself as a guide and a teammate for those struggling with:
· Relationship difficulties
· Coping with change and loss
· Healing trauma
· Moving through a transitional period
· Self-love, self-esteem, and self-worth
· Self-judgment and worrying
· Stress and anxiety
· Self-discovery
· Accomplishing goals
I provide a safe and comfortable space for my clients and believe in the healing power of authentic connection, deep listening, and empowerment. I pride myself on being the type of therapist that is honest, direct, and compassionate. I’m less of a “how does that make you feel” therapist and more of a “lets both get our hands dirty and figure this out” type of therapist. I’m active, collaborative, and committed to doing the work if you are.
Our work together will create space for a deeper understanding of self, help you foster overall mental, emotional, and physical well-being, and give you the skills to live a healthy and happy life.
Ongoing Education
My education and specialized training has helped prepare me to do this work. Here’s a look at where I’ve been and what I’ve been up to.
Degrees
B.A. Major in Psychology, Minor in Sociology | St. John’s University, Queens 2010
M.S. Ed., Mental Health Counseling | St. John’s University, Queens 2013
Licensure & Certifications
Licensed Mental Health Counselor #006710 | New York
National Certified Counselor | 2014
Trainings
NY 2-Day: Acceptance & Commitment Therapy: 2-Day Intensive ACT Training
Emotional and Binge Eating, Chronic Dieting, and Shame: What Therapist Need to Know
NY 2-Day: Certified Clinical Trauma Professional: Two-Day Trauma Competency Conference
Hypnosis 2-Day Intensive Certificate Workshop: Applying Clinical Hypnosis with Psychological Treatments
Mindfulness-Based Therapist Continuing Education and Training
Anxiety, Worry, and Panic: Effective Strategies to Calm the Anxious Mind
Yoga & Mindfulness Therapy: Mind-Brain Change for Anxiety, Moods, Trauma, & Substance Abuse
200 Hour Yoga Teaching Training, Revolution Yoga RYS 200