Marinella Valeri

I  have extensive experience  supervising both trainee and qualified children and young persons therapists. My approach is integrative and I weave psychodynamic, person centred , developmental and systemic theory into my style . My  approach is grounded in fostering a safe, reflective space where supervisees feel supported to explore their own processes, challenges, and successes. I believe in a balance between guidance and autonomy, encouraging supervisees to  meet  their professional needs and develop their own style and confidence while providing the structure and insight necessary for their professional growth.

I draw upon the Seven-Eyed Model to ensure a holistic supervision experience, focusing on the interplay between the client, the supervisee, and the therapeutic relationship, as well as the broader systemic context. I am particularly attentive to relational dynamics, including countertransference and the impact of the supervisee’s personal experiences on their work.

My aim is to empower supervisees to remain client-centered while also attending to their own professional and personal development. I value open communication, ethical and inclusive practice, and continuous learning, and I strive to model these qualities in my supervisory relationships. 

In my practice, I am dedicated to creating a compassionate, client-centered environment where children and young people can safely explore their challenges. I believe in the power of play and creativity as effective tools for communication, allowing children to express themselves in ways that feel natural and accessible. I approach my work with a commitment to reflection and self-awareness, ensuring that the therapeutic relationship remains safe and supportive.

I integrate trauma-informed approaches with attachment theory, , developmental theory, mindfulness techniques, and somatic experiencing in my work.  My practice emphasises understanding what is communicated on a non-verbal level through body language and  tunconcious processes such as projection , transference and countertransference. I work closely with the felt sense and with somatic processes as I feel the body is a valuable yet underutilised therapeutic tool.

As a supervisor, I  am supervisee led and extend this empathetic and holistic approach to our collaborative work. My aim is to meet the needs of the supervisee and hold regular reviews. I strive to create a reflective and growth-oriented space where supervisees can develop their unique therapeutic styles, work compassionately with the challenges they hold, refine their skills, and uphold ethical, inclusive and client-centered practices.

 I place strong emphasis on the value of self-care and I see supervision as an important aspect of looking after our professional selves.