The Vision for Valentino Counseling & Consultation

Written by Laura Valentino, MSW, LISW-S (she/her/hers)

When I first opened Valentino Counseling & Consultation on July 2, 2019, it was just me in a small shared office in Dublin, Ohio. My dream at the time was simple but deeply important: to build a practice where I could show up for clients in a way that felt authentic to who I am as a clinician. I wanted a space where care was guided by compassion, ethics, and evidence, not by productivity quotas or the pressure to monetize healing. To me, therapy has always been about putting the client first, and I’ve carried that belief with me from day one.

At the heart of my (and now our) work is a commitment to trauma-informed and ethical care. We know that real healing happens when clients feel truly seen and heard, so we focus heavily on the human-to-human relationship. Our clinicians are highly trained in evidence-based practices, and we continually invest in ongoing learning to bring the best of the field to our sessions.

Just as important is our commitment to inclusivity. We proudly serve the LGBTQ+ community and people of diverse belief systems, living arrangements, lifestyles, and self-expression. We work hard to create an environment where everyone feels as safe as possible (and we acknowledge that “safe” can mean different things for different people). Above all, we want our clients to feel affirmed and valued for exactly who they are.

Over the years, my solo practice has grown into a team of incredible clinicians who share these same values. Each person brings their own expertise and personality, which has only enhanced the vision I started with. What we’ve built together is more than just a workplace. It’s a supportive, collaborative, often laughter-filled environment. (Folks can likely hear us laughing together in between sessions from the lobby.) That joy translates directly into the care we provide. We’re not only passionate about helping our clients, but we’re also passionate about supporting each other.

Look at this amazing team!

We’re proud to serve the Hilliard and greater Columbus area, and being part of this community is central to our mission. Whether it’s through individual sessions, community outreach, or building connections with local organizations, our goal is to contribute to the overall well-being of the people around us.

The vision that started in that small office in Dublin has grown, but the heart of it hasn’t changed. We’re here to provide competent, compassionate, and affirming care to every person who walks through our doors. As our team continues to grow, so does our capacity to support the community, and that is something I’m endlessly grateful for.

I love this work. I love my team. I love our community and those we serve. Thanks for being here. 

Resource Spotlight: Kaleidoscope Youth Center (KYC Columbus)

KYC is Ohio’s largest nonprofit dedicated to supporting LGBTQIA+ youth and young adults through safe spaces, counseling, leadership programs, and community advocacy. They create affirming environments where young people can connect, learn, and thrive. You can support their mission by donating, volunteering, or sharing their work.

Learn more and donate to this incredible cause, please visit kycohio.org.