Accepted insurance & self-pay
About Valerie
Valerie McKinney is a Licensed Professional Counselor – Mental Health Care Provider. She enjoys working with adults (18 and over) who are interested in addressing issues that are holding them back or hindering them from reaching their potential in any or all areas of their lives. She has experience working with individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, grief issues, forgiveness issues, and other life stressors.
Valerie is a graduate of the University of Memphis and has over 16 years of experience. She uses an eclectic approach in the therapeutic process with an emphasis on developing therapeutic rapport while using reality therapy, cognitive therapy, and cognitive-behavioral therapy. Valerie encourages, supports, and asks thought-provoking questions as the client identifies and explores life-changing issues.

"As a woman of color who has worked in several different industries, I understand the unique issues that one faces when trying to find one's self through life transitions."
Get to know Valerie
Why did you decide to become a counselor?
Becoming a counselor felt like a natural career progression from entry level to supervisor to a manager with working with people issues.
What types of clients do you work with best?
I work best with adult who have a desire to improve themselves and are willing to do the work.
What type of clients are you most excited to work with?
I am most excited to work with clients who are making life transitions and need a person who can function as an impartial reality check.
What’s one thing you wish all clients knew?
I wish clients knew that therapy is a process not a quick fix.
Why did you choose to practice at Thriveworks?
I liked the idea of helping others from the comfort of my home office.
What inspires you?
Helping clients awaken their inner strength and finding their joy/purpose in life.
What can clients expect in their first session with you?
After the initial intake question client can expect to find a safe place to voice their thoughts and feeling and really be "heard".
What do you want to accomplish with an individual in their first session?
In the first session I want to get a sense of what they believe they need in order to move forward in with their lives.
What do you do for fun/on your time off?
I like to read, watch movies and socialize with family and friends.
Other areas of focus
Education and training
- Years in practice
- 19 years
- Graduating institute
- TN
- Graduating degree
- Masters
