Meet Valerie
Meet Valerie Allen, MEd, LPCC: Marriage Counselor & Infidelity Recovery Specialist
Life is a journey, and we learn as we go. I consider myself a lifelong learner—not only through my formal education and professional background–but through the ordinary and extraordinary life experiences that shape us all.
Each person’s life includes seasons of joy and seasons of deep hardship. It is often through the hardest seasons—the ones that feel the most hopeless—that we discover who we are, what matters most, and what we are truly capable of becoming. I became a therapist because I wanted to help others grow through those painful experiences, not by avoiding the pain, but by moving through it with support, clarity, and purpose.
My Approach to Infidelity Recovery Therapy: Supportive, Non-judgemental, Purposeful
Few experiences shake a relationship more deeply than betrayal. When someone comes to see me, they are often in a place of profound uncertainty. Emotions may feel overwhelming, communication has likely strained to a breaking point, and decisions feel both urgent and confusing. The pain is disorienting and isolating for both partners, though often in very different ways. I understand the emotional complexity involved in this trauma. My role is to provide structure, guide you to steady ground, and help you envision a path toward healing.
My work in infidelity recovery focuses on:
Stabilizing the immediate crisis and offering hope for the future.
Guiding you to make decisions thoughtfully.
Clarifying the path to healing the trauma and rebuilding the relationship.
Creating a space where both partners feel heard, understood, and respected.
Teaching and encouraging productive, empathetic communication.
Helping both partners discover “How and Why” the affair happened.
Rebuilding trust through honesty, accountability, and reassurance.
Restoring emotional and physical intimacy.
Planning the future of your relationship with intention.
Professional Background & Licensing
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in the State of Ohio. My background offers a unique blend of clinical expertise and practicality:
-
Master’s Degree in Community Counseling — University of Dayton
-
Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing — Ohio University
This dual background in counseling and business gives me a grounded, practical perspective. I understand that therapy is about emotions, but it is also about communication, responsibility, and making thoughtful decisions that impact your future and your family.
I am originally from Northeastern Ohio and moved to Cincinnati in 1988. My husband and I lived in Liberty Township for 28 years, where we raised 2 children who are now off living their own lives! We recently moved to Oregonia,OH where we are enjoying our empty nest and all of the recreation opportunities in the Little Miami River Valley.
I enjoy gardening, kayaking, bicycling, hiking, yoga, and everything outdoors.
My Personal Style
I bring years of life and counseling experience to the therapy process - and I connect with my clients on a personal level, while maintaining a professional therapeutic relationship. My personal therapeutic style is:
Authentic and Open: Clients, family, and friends alike describe me as genuine and down to earth. I often share my own relatable life experiences with my clients when appropriate, and my care and concern are heartfelt.
Directive and Engaged: Many people have experienced a therapist who listens but offers little feedback. My style is more conversational in the way that I ask questions to understand more deeply, provide insight and perspective, and offer feedback and guidance.
Casual: My office space and my personality are casual and relaxed. I like to be comfortable, and I want you to be, too. My clients are often relieved to learn that cussing and crying are both welcome in my office!
Non-judgemental and Empathetic: As a therapist, I believe that everyone deserves respect and empathy, and that human beings learn from mistakes. My goal is to understand you, help you understand yourself, and help partners understand each other. In my work with infidelity, it is my job to empathize with both sides of the equation.
Straight Shooter: I can “tell it like it is” while remaining tactful and kind. I will tell you what works and what doesn’t work in your journey to achieve your goals in therapy and in your marriage.
*A special note to men: I am especially adept at helping men feel comfortable and engaged in the counseling process. Many men enter therapy feeling uncertain or guarded; I strive to create an environment where both partners feel respected and heard.
Flexible Care: In-Person and Online Services
Modern life requires flexibility, and I am committed to providing accessible care through various formats:
In-Person (Oregonia, Ohio): If you value the physical "stepping away" from your routine to sit in a peaceful space, my office—convenient to Cincinnati, Mason, Lebanon, and Dayton—is ready for you. Therapy is most effective when you feel safe, relaxed, and removed from the frantic pace of daily life. While many clinical offices can feel cold or impersonal, my Oregonia office space offers a completely different experience - a “safe harbor” for healing and reflection.
A Quiet Escape in the Little Miami River Valley My office is nestled in the heart of the beautiful Little Miami River Valley. The drive here alone often serves as a "pre-session" decompression, as the landscape shifts from busy highways to rolling hills and quiet riverside views.
-
A Natural Setting: Surrounded by the peaceful energy of the valley, the office provides a serene, relaxed environment.
-
A Peaceful Atmosphere: The setting is designed to be a place of quiet reflection away from the noise of the city.
-
Privacy and Discretion: Located in a private professional setting, there are no crowded waiting rooms. Your privacy is respected from the moment you pull into the drive.
Online (Secure Video Platform)
If you prefer to attend sessions from the comfort of your home or office, or you cannot travel to my location for sessions, I provide secure teletherapy and consulting services.
-
Secure and User Friendly: I use a secure, encrypted video platform called “Sessions” that is provided by Psychology Today specifically for therapists. The same link is used every time, so no need to wait for an invitation or link for every session. Just click the link and sign in, and I will join at the appointed time.
-
Convenience: Saving “drive-time” is often necessary in today’s world. Video sessions allow you to join from your own home or office. Couples can even join from separate locations, if necessary. And for those who live outside of driving range, online sessions offer a way to connect with a therapist who truly meets your needs.
-
Comfort: Sometimes your own surroundings feel more relaxed and safe. Find a cozy spot, get your favorite blanket, and sign on.
Taking the First Step
If you are ready to trade the chaos of your current situation for a more structured path to healing, I would be honored to welcome you.
513-317-8113
Click here to send a message via our Contact Form
Healing is a process. You don’t need to see the endpoint before you begin, you just need to take the first step.