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I’m Sofia, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Certified Trauma Professional (CTP), and Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS) based in New Jersey. This work is deeply meaningful to me, both professionally and personally, and I bring that understanding into how I show up—with care, warmth, and authenticity.

I support adolescents and adults who feel stuck in their relationship with food, body image, or exercise, as well as those navigating anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma, or life transitions. I currently serve as Program Director for an eating disorder PHP/IOP and have extensive experience supporting clients across all stages of recovery.

I'm a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC), Licensed Drug and Alcohol Counselor (LCADC), and Certified Peer Recovery Specialist with over 14 years of experience working in mental health and addiction treatment across northern New Jersey. I work with individuals and couples who feel overwhelmed, stuck, anxious, or disconnected whether navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, relationship challenges, or major life transitions. I provide a grounded, compassionate, and nonjudgmental space where clients can openly explore their experiences and begin to understand what may be getting in the way of living more fully.

Taking that first step towards therapy can be challenging, which is why I prioritize creating a safe and welcoming environment where you can comfortably share your inner thoughts and feelings. My practice specializes in working with adults who identify as people pleasers and are ready to establish healthy boundaries. I'm dedicated to helping you explore your past experiences, identify limiting beliefs, and develop strategies to navigate life with greater peace and ease.

I've been a Social Worker since 2nd grade-always first in line to give a hug, support friends, and share snacks. In college, I took "Intro to Social Work", and I've never looked back. My career officially started in Addictions, and with my post-graduate studies in Structural Family Therapy, I've honed in my therapeutic skills. I've worked in a variety of settings, most recently as a Veterinary Social Worker. Logic, humor, and animals (preferably dogs!) are the cornerstone tools of my work.

Whether working with adolescents, adults, or couples, as a licensed clinical psychologist, I aim to provide a warm, non-judgmental environment in which my patients can examine the challenges that have emerged in their lives and explore barriers to meaningful change. I utilize an integrative approach that combines insight-oriented and goal-directed interventions informed by Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Attachment, Relational and Psychodynamic modalities. My couples work draws from Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy models.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey dedicated to helping individuals navigate the complexities of anxiety, depression, trauma, and the many transitions life throws our way. I am currently pursuing my PhD in Psychology, a journey that fuels my commitment to providing evidence-based care while staying at the forefront of clinical research.

My professional background includes supporting adults and young adults through challenges ranging from PTSD and substance use to family dynamics and relationship stressors. I also specialize in supporting clients through gender-specific issues and significant life stages, including postpartum support and major career or personal shifts.

I believe the foundation of effective therapy is a warm, nonjudgmental partnership. At Holistic Counseling Solution, I strive to create a space where you feel truly seen and comfortable being yourself. Together, we will focus on your unique strengths to foster the meaningful, lasting change you are looking for.

• I am accepting new clients. Please reach out to discuss my session availability.

I specialize in working with clients to overcome anxiety, build self-confidence, heal through loss, and navigate relationship issues such as boundaries and family estrangement. I also specialize in working with college students who need support with goal setting, relationship skills, career planning, managing stress, and navigating emerging adulthood.

Dr. Marilyn Valenciano has over 25 years of experience working as a mental health practitioner, specializing in women's mental health, with a focus on helping individuals navigate anxiety, people-pleasing tendencies, boundary-setting, and the complexities of grief and loss. Through a compassionate, client-centered approach, Marilyn supports women in overcoming obstacles, healing from past wounds, and cultivating lives of balance, strength, and fulfillment. Collaboratively, you will discover your strengths, build resilience, and create the life you want.