Our Staff – Valerie Larocque – Methods and Expertise.
Valérie Larocque, BSW, MSW, RSW, FM Acc.
Registered Social Worker
My Approach & Areas of Expertise
I believe that meaningful change can happen when people are provided with the guidance, support, and tools they need to draw on their own strengths and realize their potential to live happy and fulfilling lives. My role is to create a compassionate, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where individuals and families feel comfortable exploring challenges, overcoming obstacles, and developing the skills they need to thrive and move forward in their life’s journey.
I work collaboratively with my clients, recognizing that each person and family has unique experiences, strengths, and needs. Through a person-centred approach, I support clients in identifying their goals, building confidence, and developing practical strategies that promote positive change and emotional well-being.
My Areas of Expertise Include
- Stress, anger, and conflict management
- Parenting techniques and approaches
- Parent and teen conflict resolution
- Couple counselling
- Life transitions, grief, and loss
- Navigating life stressors and identifying next step
- Mental health education, including depression and anxiety
Stress, Anger, and Conflict Management Strategies
As part of my counselling approach, I provide guidance and practical strategies to help individuals and families manage stress, regulate emotions, improve communication, and navigate conflict. Depending on each client’s unique needs and goals, I incorporate the following approaches:
- Self-care strategies: Supporting clients in developing healthy habits and practices that promote emotional well-being.
- Breathing strategies: Teaching breathing techniques to support emotional regulation and manage stress.
- Relaxation techniques: Introducing practical tools to promote calm and reduce tension
- Goal-setting approaches: Helping clients identify meaningful goals and develop achievable steps toward positive change.
- Interpersonal competence: Building skills to support healthy relationships, emotional awareness, and effective interactions.
- Life balance approaches: Supporting clients in creating greater balance between personal, family, professional, and emotional responsibilities.
- Communication skills: Developing effective communication strategies to strengthen relationships and resolve conflicts
- Life coaching strategies: Helping clients identify their strengths, clarify their goals, and develop practical steps toward personal growth.
- Parenting skills: Providing guidance and support to help parents navigate challenges and strengthen their relationships with their children.
- Resources and referrals: Connecting clients with relevant resources, tools, and supports to assist them in their ongoing journey.