Valerie Baker

Valerie Baker is a counsellor based in the United Kingdom who supports people dealing with trauma, abuse, stress, anxiety, addictions, anger and low self-esteem. She also helps with relationship strain, grief and issues related to sexual assault. Valerie identifies as respectful and compassionate in her work and adapts the way she talks and plans sessions to the needs of each person.

Valerie uses ideas from attachment-based work to look at how early relationships affect current feelings and reactions. She also draws on psychodynamic thinking to help people notice patterns that repeat over time. Sessions focus on understanding what sits behind strong emotions like anger and grief, and on learning ways to manage them day to day.

Her approach aims to be steady and patient. Valerie encourages people to name painful experiences and to explore how those experiences shape current behaviour. She offers a space to reflect, to practise different responses, and to try out new ways of relating to oneself and others.

Valerie has worked in counselling for 19 years and holds BACP registration. Her experience includes long-term and shorter-term work with adults who have faced trauma and attachment difficulties. She tailors work to each person's pace and priorities.

Sessions are provided by video or telephone, and Valerie asks people to confirm the current session options before booking. To begin, clients use the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule according to the therapist's availability.

How attachment and psychodynamic ideas work online

Attachment-based work looks at how early bonds shape feelings and reactions in relationships. It helps people understand why they may respond with anger, withdrawal or anxiety, and offers ways to practise different responses in everyday interactions.

Psychodynamic therapy pays attention to repeating patterns and to feelings that may be linked to past experiences. It supports people to notice these patterns, talk them through, and make small changes that reduce distress over time.

Finding the right approach is part of the work. The therapist will discuss goals and preferences and will work together with each person to choose which ideas to use and how to pace the sessions. That collaborative planning can change as needs evolve.

Practical benefits of online therapy include fitting sessions into a busy life and saving travel time. Video can allow visual connection, while telephone sessions may be easier when less bandwidth or a shorter check-in is needed. Confirm which formats are currently offered before booking so sessions can be planned to suit your routine and needs.