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About Valerie Cole

My basic view of life is optimistic. I believe we are presented with series of lessons and experiences that make us who we are and teach us strength and resilience. If we are fortunate enough to be blessed with supportive family environments as children, we may find that the difficult times don't last long and don't significantly affect self-esteem. Yet even if our early years held pain, disappointment and rejection, we can find joy and satisfaction as adults by making new choices and learning new behaviors. We have the power to grow and change.

My work is focused on assisting individuals to tap into their innate strength and wisdom in order to grow toward fulfillment and happiness.

In July 2010, I relocated from Rochester NY to Oakland CA. This transition came about after a long period of questioning and listening to my inner guide about how best to accomplish my life goals. I am excited about my new life in the Bay Area and am currently accepting new clients.

Services

Psychotherapy

  • Work with individuals and couples Berkeley CA
  • New York State licensed clinical psychologist
  • California license pending

Teaching

  • Cherry Hill Seminary -- Chair, Pagan Pastoral Counseling Department
    Online Distance Education
  • Institute of Transpersonal Psychology -- Adjunct Instructor
    Palo Alto, CA
  • St. John Fisher College-- Associate Professor, Psychology Department
    Rochester, NY 1996-2005
  • Teach variety of courses related to psychology, counseling, and research at both undergraduate and graduate levels

Disaster and Trauma

  • Currently volunteer with American Red Cross as disaster mental health manager
  • Volunteered during several large natural disasters including Louisiana in 2005
  • Coordinated disaster mental health preparedness efforts in NY State as ARC State Disaster Mental Health Lead
  • Developed and taught disaster mental health curriculum in NY, Maine, Washington, Oregon
  • Worked with Veterans Administration to assess PTSD

Background

    APA-Accredited Clinical Internship
      Los Angeles Veterans Affairs Outpatient Clinic
    Ph.D., University of Iowa
      Clinical-Social Psychology
    M.A., California State University, Northridge
      Experimental Psychology
    B.A., California State University, Northridge
      Psychology Major
      Human Sexuality Minor

See attached Curriculum Vitae

Credentials

NY State License 013748-1

    Professional memberships and activities:

      Alameda County Psychological Association
      California Psychological Association
      American Psychological Association