I completed my counselling training at City Lit, London in 2018. Since then, I’ve done some additional training in trauma, OCD and anti-racism.
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 and despair start to make sense of their feelings.
As an LGBTQI+ affirming counsellor, I treat people of all genders and sexualities with the dignity and respect they deserve. As a white-passing person (I am mixed race), I am aware of the privilege that gives me. I am committed to challenging racial bias in counselling, learning about the issues Black people and people of colour face, and promoting anti-racism in my work and personal life.
I am also committed to making my practice as accessible as possible for disabled people. Please ask if there are any changes or adjustments you need. I believe in and follow the social model of disability, but I respect any ways you see or describe yourself.
You’re welcome to ask me more about my views if it will help you feel safe and comfortable working with me.
Sara Vali 