MBS Counseling and Therapy

Hello, I'm Valerie Banda-Rodriguez, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over a decade of experience supporting individuals through life's challenges, healing journeys, and personal growth. I earned my Master's in Social Work in 2015 from Loma Linda University, and became licensed in 2019. My professional experience includes county social work, medical social work, community mental health, and healthcare settings. I spent approximately four years working in community mental health and four years at Kaiser Permanente before transitioning fully into private practice. In 2023, I founded my own practice to provide more individualized and meaningful care. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, attachment and relationship challenges, life transitions, self-esteem concerns, and other mood-related difficulties. I also have extensive experience supporting women during the perinatal and postpartum periods, helping them navigate the emotional, relational, and identity shifts that can accompany pregnancy, childbirth, and parenthood. My therapeutic approach is compassionate, collaborative, and grounded in the belief that healing begins with understanding ourselves more deeply. Drawing from my MBS (Mind, Body, and Systems) framework, I help clients explore not only their thoughts and emotions, but also the ways their life experiences, relationships, environments, and survival patterns have shaped how they move through the world. Together, we work to increase awareness, strengthen self-trust, and create meaningful change that feels aligned with who they truly are. I integrate evidence-based approaches while tailoring treatment to each individual's unique needs and goals. My hope is to provide a safe, supportive space where clients feel seen, understood, and empowered to move beyond survival and toward a more authentic and fulfilling life. Whether you are navigating a difficult season, healing from past experiences, or seeking greater clarity and connection, I would be honored to walk alongside you in that journey.