Valda Prado-Sampaio

Philosophy & Vision

My therapeutic style is integrative, drawing from diverse theories according to each client’s needs and preferences. These include cognitive-behavioural, internal family systems, schema therapy, mindfulness, and other client-centred approaches.

Some of my areas of expertise include relationship conflict, sexuality issues, infidelity and other breaches of trust, problematic use of porn or other compulsive behaviours, narcissism, stress and burnout, anger management, depression, anxiety, trauma, and grief.

I help people of all ages and walks of life create healthier, happier relationships - including with themselves. I guide them through difficult times, especially when anger or fear is high and hope is low.

Background

I was born and raised in Brazil and have lived in Australia since 1994. I have been working as a psychologist in private practice in Australia since 2001.

I also have a degree in Theatre Studies. My passion for drama is connected to my interest in action-oriented or process approaches to therapy, such as psychodrama and body-mind modalities. I believe these approaches complement the more cognitive, ‘talking’ ones, such as cognitive-behavioural and solution-focused therapies.

Over time I’ve developed my own work style and now follow what I call an integrative approach, drawing from diverse theories according to each client’s needs and preferences.

Services

Quality Provision

You may have noticed that the word encourage appears many times in how I work. According to an old French dictionary, to encourage is to make strong, to hearten. That’s why I like to ‘en-courage’ my clients – I want to give them courage, strength, and hope.

Therapy Approach

My relationship with you will be an important part of the therapy - a safe place for you to practice trusting or saying no.
I’ll want you to feel safe and comfortable with me to openly share your thoughts and feelings about our work together.
I’ll accept you as you are – even, or especially, if you don't.
Together, we’ll work towards the changes that are important to you.
I’ll encourage you to take emotional risks and to experiment with new behaviours, so you can reclaim your power and freedom.
I’ll follow your pace, not mine.
I'll always remember it’s a privilege to be allowed into your personal, private world.
I'll take confidentiality seriously.