Valerie N. Keller Gates, Founder and Director


Valerie Steele I am an experienced licensed professional counselor in the states of Oklahoma and Texas. I served my country in the Oklahoma Air National Guard for 22 years. In my day-to-day life, I am a transparent-honest-caring individual who will bring those traits to each session. The goal is to  create a safe environment while concerns and challenges are being processed.


My practice only utilizes teletherapy. I have experience with those struggling with mild to severe mental illness to include depression, grief & loss, abuse/neglect, addictions with dual diagnosis, behavioral issues, bipolar, schizophrenia & psychotic disorders, and parenting issues.  I also have experience working with individuals from diverse cultures, lifestyles, LGBTQ+ and Veteran’s.

My specialties include managing symptoms of anxiety, depression, grief & loss, identity issues, relationship stressors, and relationship counseling. I utilize various therapeutic approaches/styles including cognitive-behavioral therapy, EMDR, client focus, bio-psycho-social, and client-centered…. just to name a few. 
Everyone deserves respect and compassion as well as the opportunity to have added support when needed. 
 
Professional Affiliations:

National Board Certified Counselor (NCE)

American Counseling Association (ACA)

Psychology Today


Education:

B.S. in Family Studies and Gerontology at Southern Nazarene University 2013

M.H.R in Licensed Professional Counseling at The University of Oklahoma 2015

Certified Clinical Telemental Health Provider - PESI, Inc. 2021

Certified Mediator - Defense Equal Opportunity Management Institute (DEOMI) 2021

Certified EMDR Clinician/Therapist - EMDR Internatinal Association



Counseling Settings Where I Have Obtained Experience:

Deep Thoughts and Wellness Center

Primary Therapeutic Services

Balanced Life Counseling


Therapy Philosophy

For therapy to be effective, both you and I must be actively involved in developing therapy goals and assessing progress. Efforts to change self-perception and behaviors require work both in session and in your daily life. Some change can occur quickly and easily; while more often change requires slow, deliberate, and repeated efforts. 

You should be aware that while therapy interventions offer potential benefits, they also present possible risks. Such risks might include uncomfortable feelings of sadness, guilt, anxiety, anger, or frustrations as you discuss unpleasant aspects of your life, or experience difficulties with others as you change. Nevertheless, weigh the potential risks against benefits, which might include such assets as gaining insights, developing coping skills, and a more positive experience in life's daily activities. 

There are no guarantees for what you will experience. As a result of your personal growth, the potential benefits of therapy may lead to healthier relationships, solutions to specific problems, and significant reductions in feelings of distress. Therapy, as in life, is not a destination it is a journey.


Therapeutic Approach
 
Every individual is unique and complex. The approach we take with your concerns is based on the information you provide and the assessment of your emotional, physical, social and spiritual well being.  We must be open and honest with each other for appropriate therapy goals to be established.  It is important to meet you  where you currently are in your life's journey. Methods of therapy are customized based on your individual needs and concerns. We will  collaborate as we identify your needs and concerns  during sessions.

Most sessions will focus on self-awareness, choice, problem solving, and setting goals for the present and future. Other areas of therapy may include focusing on ownership of behavior, your strengths and limitations, self-concept, acceptance, and change. Outside of session, there may be recommendations such as journaling, reading articles, or other methods of self-discovery and expression. 

Therapy is a process in which you, the individual will gain knowledge and tools that will encourage continued growth and development. You will be challenged in a caring and empathetic manner to look at yourself and seek alternative options and strategies for handling life. 


Please feel free to contact me!

LOCATION

Find me on the map

Office Hours

Primary

Monday:

10:00 am-6:00 pm

Tuesday:

10:00 am-6:00 pm

Wednesday:

10:00 am-6:00 pm

Thursday:

10:00 am-6:00 pm

Friday:

10:00 am-6:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed