Valia Shoja, LPC

My Story

I am an Iranian-American immigrant with lived experience that has given me insight into the challenges faced by underprivileged communities and vulnerable populations. Given my cultural background, I am deeply committed to making mental health services more accessible and culturally responsive.

I believe in the healing power of stories to build resilience and foster collective healing. Every human has an authentic inner compass that can guide them toward meaning and purpose. My mission is to help clients reconnect with their values and aspirations while building a trusting therapeutic relationship that supports long-term growth in a safe and collaborative space.

I have worked extensively with individuals from Arab, Afghan, Iranian, South Asian, and Muslim communities. I am bilingual in English and Persian (Dari/Farsi).

Educational Background

I earned my master’s degree in Counseling from George Washington University in 2021. Previously, I completed a Master’s in Computer Science from Virginia Tech in 2006. Counseling is my second career; I worked for 17 years as an IT Consultant and Project Manager before transitioning into mental health.

I am trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS Level 1) and am a Certified Addictions-Informed Mental Health Professional (CAIMHP).

Clinical Experience

I joined Wellness Through Counseling in February 2022. Prior to that, I completed my internship with the California Department of Rehabilitation, where I helped individuals with disabilities achieve independence through employment.

I also served as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for Fairfax Juvenile & Domestic Relations District Court, advocating for abused and neglected children, and volunteered with Fairfax County, supporting elderly adults with disabilities in maintaining quality of life and independence.

Areas of Expertise

I provide individual, couples, and family counseling for concerns including anxiety, depression, stress management, trauma recovery, and relationship conflict.

As a Certified Addictions-Informed Mental Health Professional, I work with individuals struggling with gaming addiction, problematic alcohol use, and cannabis dependency. I take a compassionate, nonjudgmental approach to understanding the underlying emotional needs that addictive behaviors often serve. Together, we explore healthier coping strategies, strengthen internal resources, and support sustainable change.

I also have experience supporting adult survivors of childhood trauma and couples and families navigating domestic conflict, cross-cultural dynamics, and interfaith relationships.

My Approach

I integrate evidence-based, person-centered approaches tailored to each client’s needs, including:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)
Internal Family Systems (IFS)
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)

My goal is to create a culturally attuned, collaborative space where clients feel understood, empowered, and supported in building meaningful and lasting change.

Fees

55 Minute Session: $150
90 Minute Session: $225

Please, click on the link below to schedule a complimentary 15-minute phone consultation for us to learn more about you or your child and to see if we are a good fit for your needs.

During our call, we can address any questions you may have and help you get started.

We look forward to connecting with you soon!

Schedule my FREE 15-minute phone consultation