Lizbeth Valencia-Lucero, LCSW
Founder of Graceful Journey Counseling, LLC
I was born and raised in Peru, and at 18, I moved to New York to reunite with my parents. Settling down in the United States as an immigrant represented a huge life transition.
And while adjusting to a new culture and community was challenging, it was also deeply rewarding. When I met people with similar experiences, I knew that eventually, I wanted to find a way to help people through difficult chapters in their own lives.
My family endured distance, attachment challenges, and other hardships, all in pursuit of a better life. As the only daughter of non-English speaking parents in a new country, I witnessed firsthand the numerous obstacles that countless families and individuals face, from assimilating to new cultures to financial hurdles to parenting struggles. But I also learned that it’s possible to make it through tough times when a family perseveres, loves unconditionally, holds on to faith and grace, and never stops fighting for each other.
In my work as a therapist, I draw on my experiences and my genuine compassion for people of all cultures, to help my clients tap into their own inner strengths and turn challenging times into opportunities for transformative personal growth.
Overcoming Personal Challenges Inspired Me To Become A Therapist
My Education and Professional Background
I pursued my Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from Lehman College and continued my education to complete my Master of Arts in Social Work at Hunter College. Afterward, I worked as a counselor within Mount Sinai Health System in New York and several other mental health agencies. I’ve also received extensive additional training in:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy
Grief Processing
Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT)
Internal Family Systems (IFS)
Expressive Arts Therapy
Motivational Interviewing (MI)
While completing my practicum during my studies, I realized my passion for supporting people struggling with anxiety, grief and loss, and life transitions. I gained valuable insights through my work at larger medical institutions, but I knew I wanted to cultivate a space where I could help people from all backgrounds navigate their unique journeys. My practice, Graceful Journey Counseling, was born from my desire to aid people in finding grace and healing through holistic therapy.
My Approach To Therapy
I believe that people are more than their symptoms. In my practice, I foster authentic connections through a warm, non-judgmental, and relational approach to therapy. I draw on techniques from CBT, MI, and IPT, as well as expressive arts therapy and mindfulness practices, to nurture the mind, body, and soul. As a counselor, I’m here to honor your whole experience as a person, not just your current struggles.
I primarily work with clients who are seeking support for anxiety, trauma, and life transitions, including coping with grief, becoming a parent, or navigating young adulthood. I offer counseling for both secular and religious clients, and I recognize the vital role of spirituality and faith as sources of hope and strength for many people. Additionally, I view creative outlets as powerful tools for personal change, and many of my clients experience breakthroughs with expressive arts therapy.
I cherish every aspect of my work as a therapist, and simply being present with my clients, listening, and empathizing with them while validating their wholeness is a gift. I’m honored that my clients trust me with long-held secrets and vulnerable experiences, and I value the incredible emotional connections we share.
I understand feeling lost, and trying desperately to hold on to hope that something better is on the horizon. But I know that with support, you can find grace. I’m prepared to guide you in emotional, relational, and spiritual transformation, empowering you to heal for yourself and your loved ones.
The Values That Shape My Practice
I’m dedicated to helping other people find meaning and purpose in their lives, even with their struggles. I listen attentively to my clients, and we get curious together, uncovering new paths to healing. No matter your circumstances, I’m committed to aiding you in reaching your full potential.
“Holding” another human being as they navigate challenges, commit to change and healing, and step into a brighter future they’ve created is uniquely fulfilling. Witnessing someone’s face light up with hope for the future, and watching as individuals turn their pain into strengths, are the greatest rewards of my vocation as a therapist.
Outside of therapy, I enjoy spending quality time with my husband and our three children, going to church, gardening, and exploring the outdoors. In my free time, I’m often working on arts and crafts projects, making homemade bath products, trying new recipes, and listening to audiobooks.
How I Work With Clients
In counseling, I offer personalized treatment to help you create a more balanced and peaceful life. I provide virtual therapy sessions for individuals and groups in English and Spanish. If you’re curious about starting counseling, I encourage you to browse my website or schedule a free consultation to learn more about my practice. Whether you’re grappling with a difficult life transition, dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, or trauma, or simply feeling lost and uncertain, I know that you can find true grace and healing.
Lizbeth Valencia-Lucero is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) based in Bethlehem, PA. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Social Work and her Master of Arts in Social Work from Hunter College. Lizbeth has received additional training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Grief Processing, Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Expressive Arts Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing (MI). She supports clients in healing from anxiety, trauma, grief, life transitions, and other challenges.