Valentina Calandra

My approach is eclectic and informed by intersectional feminist theory. I believe each person needs tailored therapy that pulls from all relevant theories and toolkits; some methods are better suited to some people and I adapt my approach based on the individual, the specific problems they are encountering, and their goals. My practice is about self-discovery and awareness and how we can channel this knowledge into changing maladaptive behaviors. A feminist therapy approach is one that focuses on seeing the personal as political. The approach views gender, sexuality, and other marginalizing forces as significant stressors on mental health, and applies a multicultural, egalitarian lens on psychotherapy. I believe therapy is a space where problematic and outdated societal ideas can be challenged, where clients can be equipped with the strength and perspective necessary to deconstruct learned behaviors and beliefs that are no longer serving them nor society at large. My praxis is informed by years of studying queer theory, liberatory psychology, anti-racism, and feminist therapy. I stand by deprivatizing therapy and healing: I let you in on my tools and resources, so that you may continue the work by yourself and within your communities. I strive to create a thoroughly safe, warm, and informal environment in therapy, where clients can be radically honest and experience relief, understanding, and compassion. This creates the right basis for then doing the necessary work to see changes and to evolve and grow past the things that are holding you back. My approach to couples therapy is informed by the Gotmann's Method, Emotionally Focused Therapy (the most effective modality for couples work - currently getting certified), and queer-political approaches to love and kinship. Gathering the next group for FLINTA-only group therapy. I also offer 10-session packages on Disordered Eating with a practical, tool-oriented, behavioral approach. Contact me for more info. https://complicated.life/blog/beyond-affirmative-the-quest-for-queer-therapy/

2022-present Whole Festival Psychologist on-call 2019-present Private Psychological Therapist 2019-present Workplace Psychological Consultant 2018-2019 Organizational Management at Zalando 2015-2016 Psychologist at a private clinic in The Hague and Amsterdam, The Netherlands 2013 Counsellor at a dual-diagnosis rehabilitation facility in Columbia, Maryland

2024 Essentials of Anti-Racist Mental Health Practice 2024 Gotmann Couple's Therapy Method, Level 1 Certification 2023 The National Institute for the Clinical Application of Behavioral Medicine - 'How to work with the traumatized brain' 2023 Heilpraktikerin für Psychotherapie 2015-2017 MSc in Clinical Psychology from the University of Leiden, The Netherlands 2011-2015 BA in Psychology from Dickinson College, Pennsylvania