Valerie Akins

Valerie Akins is a dedicated Clinical Social Worker and Therapist, specializing in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Radically Open DBT (RO DBT) for adults facing disorders of overcontrol. Her clients frequently encounter challenges such as excessive worry, a need for certainty and order, rigid thinking, and difficulties with social connections. Many struggle with people-pleasing tendencies, perfectionism, avoidance, procrastination, and low emotional awareness, often feeling misunderstood. Valerie understands that overcontrol can manifest in various ways, including depression, anxiety, and personality disorders such as Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder, Avoidant Personality Disorder, Paranoid Personality Disorder, and Schizoid Personality Disorder. Her treatment approach emphasizes openness, psychological flexibility, and the enhancement of social connectedness. With intensive training in Radically Open DBT (RO DBT) and experience spanning residential treatment, inpatient psychiatric care, partial hospitalization, and outpatient settings, Valerie incorporates kindness at the heart of her practice. She is enthusiastic and passionate about empowering her clients towards open-minded exploration and personal accountability, helping them gain confidence, reduce emotional loneliness, and build meaningful social connections. Valerie looks forward to welcoming those interested in her innovative approach to therapy.