Get to know me:

I am a Washington State Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate. I graduated from California State University Los Angeles in 2016 with a Bachelors of Arts in Social Work and a Minor in Asian American Studies. I have also graduated from the University of Washington in 2022 with a Masters in Social Work with a concentration in Community Centered-Integrative Practice.  I have worked in the social service field as well as the medical field for most of my career. I follow a clinical and community social work approach as an aide to process and healing.  My focus it creates a space where clients can share, feel heard, and be empowered. My overall goal is for clients have a positive treatment experience in their healing journey.

On my free time I enjoy ferry rides. hiking, exploring new place, and cooking!

What struggles am I most skilled at addressing as a mental health professional?

Valerie treats: anxiety, depression, and trauma. She offers a welcoming space for creative exploration that is collaborative, client-centered, strengths-based, and trauma informed. She believes that true healing is an interconnected process between an individual and their community. Valerie’s approach to counseling focuses on understanding a person’s stories, experience, and intersections of identity.

What populations do I work with?

Valerie works with adolescents age (14-19), adults and elders via Telehealth.

What is my approach to healing?

I utilize a variety of techniques and skills drawn from recognized therapeutic modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, client-centered approach, strengths-based approach, motivational interviewing, and community building.

Education: Master of Social Work, Concentration in Community-Centered Integrative Practice; Bachelor of Social Work; Minor in Asian American Studies

School:  University of Washington School of Social Work; California State University of Los Angeles

Year Graduated: 2022, 2016