Before training as a counsellor, I volunteered as a Samaritan for ten years. This gave me experience in talking to a wide variety of people about all sorts of concerns, making them feel welcome and safe, and helping people in deep distress start to make sense of their feelings.
I am queer- and trans-friendly (including non-binary identities) and treat people of all genders and sexualities with dignity and respect. As a white-passing person (I am mixed race), I am aware of the privilege that gives me. I aim to be as anti-racist as possible in my work and personal life. I’m influenced by disability justice and am committed to making my practice as accessible and affirming as possible for my disabled and/or neurodivergent clients. My hope is always that we can acknowledge our differences – both visible and invisible – and come together to explore, understand and work deeply together.
I am a COVID-conscious therapist. For in-person sessions, I work in a large well-ventilated room with a HEPA filter and am open to any other mitigations you may need to take. I often work with people affected by the pandemic, whether through long COVID or trying to navigate daily life without broader mitigations in place.
You’re welcome to ask more about my views if it will help you feel safe and comfortable working with me.
My training and qualifications
I have been seeing clients since 2016 and working in private practice since 2020.
I am an accredited member of the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy). To be accredited, I had to complete a rigorous application and assessment process aimed at acknowledging high standards of knowledge, experience and development.
2025-6: EMDR training, Richman EMDR Training
2024: Post-graduate diploma in trauma therapy, NAOS Institute
2018: Diploma in integrative counselling, City Lit
I’ve also completed training with MS-UK and Spokz People on working with disabled clients.
Sara Vali 