Valia Shoja, MA

I have worked with individuals with a wide range of mental health challenges. I also enjoy working with couples and families building healthier and more secure relationships. I integrate a range of evidence-based, person-centered, therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Internal Family System (IFS), Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT).

I am very passionate about serving the community and making mental health services more accessible. I have experience working with clients of diverse cultural backgrounds. I am a multi-cultural and a multi-lingual therapist that provides therapy in English and Persian. 

It will be my privilege to accompany you on this intimate journey. I look forward to the opportunity of working together as a team!

Education

I earned my Masters in Counseling from The George Washington University in 2021. Previously, I earned a Master of Science in Computer Science from Virginia Tech in 2006.

 

Experience

I joined Wellness through Counseling in 2022 as a resident in counseling under the supervision of Salma Abugideiri, LPC. Before that, I completed my internship with the CA Department of Rehabilitation. I helped people with disabilities achieve independence through employment.  I am a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. I also have experience as a Court Appointed Special Advocate for Fairfax Juvenile & Domestic Relations District Court, advocating for the best interest of abused and neglected children. Additionally, I have worked as a volunteer for Fairfax County helping elder adults with disabilities maintain their quality of life and independence.

​Counseling is my second career. I have worked as an IT Consultant and Project Manager for 17 years.