Accepted insurance & self-pay
About Pooja
Pooja Vala is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 8 years of experience in the mental health field. She has experience working with individuals, couples, and families of all ages and backgrounds experiencing depression, anxiety, marital stress, life transitions, history of trauma, and more. She has the unique experience of being raised in a traditional Indian household while also growing up in a small Florida town. This, coupled with her professional experience, allows her to provide the support, guidance, and empathy that people need to feel seen and heard.
Pooja earned her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of North Florida. She utilizes multiple approaches to psychotherapy, including person-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and mindfulness.
It is totally normal to experience struggles in everyday life. Pooja knows how hard it can be to ask for help, and she wants to extend a hand out to you now. Whatever it is you are going through, she will sit with you on your journey of personal growth to overall happiness. If you are willing and ready, schedule an appointment with Pooja today!

"As a first-generation Indian-American, I understand the complicated overlap between identity exploration and mental health stigma."
Get to know Pooja
Why did you decide to become a counselor?
I wanted to create a safe space for others.
What types of clients do you work with best?
Motivated clients who do their best to communicate their emotions.
What type of clients are you most excited to work with?
Individuals undergoing general life stressors/adjustment disorders.
What’s one thing you wish all clients knew?
We're not judging you, we genuinely want to help
Why did you choose to practice at Thriveworks?
I love their flexibility, mission, and respect for their providers.
What inspires you?
Miracles
What can clients expect in their first session with you?
Getting to know their therapist and giving a little information about what brings them into therapy
What do you want to accomplish with an individual in their first session?
Building rapport and communicating empathy
What should clients know about you before scheduling a first counseling session?
I'm easygoing and empathetic. Just be yourself.
What do you do for fun/on your time off?
Play video games, sew, listen to music.
What’s one thing about you that defines you (non-professional)?
My kindness
Other areas of focus
Education and training
- Years in practice
- 8 years
- Graduating institute
- University of North Florida
- Graduating degree
- Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
