About Valerie

I have a Masters of Social Work degree and have worked in a variety of settings including wellness counselling, health care, palliative care, intimate partner violence and child welfare. I am an Assistant Professor teaching within the Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University. I have a keen interest and have completed training in recognizing and responding to compassion fatigue / empathy fatigue through Tend Academy. I am an experienced mindfulness teacher having studied/trained in various modalities. Throughout my career I have continued to explore ways to bring mindfulness into my practice. It has been both a personal and professional life-saver. 

I provide trauma-informed care meaning that I recognize the signs and responses to trauma and work to avoid re-traumatization of clients. I also look at the systemic issues that lead to experiences of oppression and trauma. 

In order to create space where clients can feel supported, heard and understood, I am committed to life long-learning and exploring new approaches and practices to best be of service. I am in good standing with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers and a member of the Ontario Association of Social Workers. 

I have completed my yoga teacher training in The Flow Movement Method.

Fun facts

I live with my beloved, who happens to be my best friend, and my adorable dog who regularly teaches me about living in the moment.
I love to kayak and spend time in nature.
I aspire to perform a stand-up comedy routine… somewhere… one day… dreaming it in!