Valerie Alcena, LMSW

Valerie A. Alcena, LMSW, is a licensed master social worker with comprehensive training and experience in evidence‑based therapeutic modalities. Her clinical expertise includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), mindfulness‑based interventions, solution‑focused therapy, family therapy, and systems‑oriented approaches. Valerie is committed to helping individuals take meaningful, practical, and personalized steps toward cultivating a healthy, balanced, and fulfilling life.

Since becoming a New York State Licensed Social Worker in 2015, Valerie has dedicated her practice to serving a diverse range of clients, including families, young professionals, children, and individuals transitioning into retirement. She has extensive experience supporting patients in navigating and managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, ADD, autism spectrum–related challenges, adjustment difficulties, body dysmorphia, and trauma‑related symptoms.

Her work is grounded in the belief that emotional well‑being is deeply interconnected with physical health, and she strives to help patients understand and strengthen this mind‑body relationship.

Valerie earned her Master of Social Work (MSW) from New York University and her Master of Public Administration (MPA) from Norwich University. She is also certified in Trauma‑Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF‑CBT), further enhancing her ability to support individuals recovering from traumatic experiences. Her clinical approach is culturally conscious, strengths‑based, and person‑centered, ensuring that each patient feels seen, respected, and empowered throughout the therapeutic process.

Central to Valerie’s philosophy is the belief that education and self‑awareness are powerful tools for healing. She guides her patients in developing and strengthening coping skills through comprehensive psychoeducation, collaborative exploration, and the modeling of sustainable self‑care practices. By fostering acceptance, resilience, and self‑compassion, Valerie helps individuals not only understand their mental health diagnoses but also thrive in their personal, relational, and professional lives.

Outside of her clinical work, Valerie finds joy and grounding in listening to meditative music, tending to her garden, and preparing nourishing family‑style meals—activities that reflect her holistic approach to wellness and balance.

“Be kind. Every person you meet is fighting a difficult battle.” – Plato