Meet Valerie

I began my college career in psychology because I knew I wanted to help people, though I wasn't sure exactly how that would look. After shadowing a speech-language pathologist, I decided to switch majors. I earned a Master's in Speech-Language Pathology but I soon realized I felt limited in how I could help, as I was only addressing one aspect of a person's life. After some reflection, I decided to pursue a degree in School Counseling. A friend encouraged me to also complete the clinical counseling requirements so I could become dual-licensed, which I did. 

I quickly realized how limited School Counselor positions were, so I  began working with kids and teens in an office and school-based setting. I then took a role at a teen residential facility then transitioned back to an office and school-based position. While working with the kids and teens, I often felt stuck when they would return home to the same environments, many of which hadn't changed. Some environments were open to change, yet some environments expected only the kids to change. A friend told me about an opening working with adults. I took on the challenge, which turned out to be an incredible opportunity for growth. 

This new role allowed me to strengthen my clinical skills and work with individuals and groups in outpatient, IOP, PHP and residential settings. I learned a great deal about addiction and trauma, and I finally felt like I could help people as a whole, not just in isolated areas of their lives. During this time, I also focused on my own growth, getting certified in Reiki, Yoga, and EMDR. 

However, I eventually started feeling   stuck and again felt limited in how I could help. I moved into private practice and left the community agency. This lead me to start my own private practice, where I hope to meet you.