About

Hello! I’m Valentina, founder and lead clinician of EQUA therapy.

I’m Master qualified and registered member of the British Association For Counselling & Psychotherapy (BACP).

Valentina Counsellor & psychotherapy

My practice is ethically driven and aimed at providing the highest quality therapy.

Prior to EQUA, I’ve worked as therapist in the mental health field for many years, both in NHS settings and third sector organisations.

I can provide a warm confidential space for you to confide, unburden and develop into the best version of yourself.

I’m a fluent English and Italian speaker with experience of the cultural norms and differences of each country, and I’m happy to conduct sessions in whichever language you feel most comfortable speaking in.

HOW I WORK

I’m OPEN

I see diversity as strength and something to celebrate rather than mask or fix. I will always be my authentic self, and I take pride in providing a safe space for you to always be unapologetically yourself too.

I’m COMPASSIONATE

As a culturally-diverse woman with lived experience of mental health challenges, I have a natural empathy for my clients and a genuine desire and motivation to help you improve your life.

I’m HONEST

I’m transparent about how I conduct my practice, honest in my views, and I acknowledge any mistakes with humility rather than defensiveness. I encourage all of my clients to do the same.

I’m COMMITTED

A successful therapeutic relationship is a cooperative one. I will be present throughout your journey, even when things get tough. I always have a willingness to reflect on and work through challenges.

  • MSc Counselling & Psychotherapy - University of Salford (2020).

  • PGDip Counselling & Psychotherapy - University of Salford (2019)

  • Motivational interviewing (2018)

  • Lvl 3 Counselling skills - The Manchester College (2017)

  • Lvl 2 Counselling concepts - The Manchester College (2016)

  • MSc Business, Governance & auditing - University of Pavia (2016)

Academic qualifications

  • Polyvagal therory and trauma focused therapy

  • The neuroscience of trauma

  • Single session therapy

  • Gender Sex Relationship Diversity

  • Neurodiversity, ADHD & Autism

  • Ethical Non Monogamy & polyamory

  • Bereavement -The Nature of Grief & Attachment Theory

Professional development

  • Counsellor in private practice since 2022

  • Manchester NHS talking therapies - Counsellor

  • Salford NHS talking therapies - Counsellor

  • Listening Ear - Counsellor

  • The Big Life Group - Health Coach

  • Creative Support forensic unit - Mental health practitioner

  • MIND - Mentor young people

Work experience