Valerie is a Licensed Master Social Worker through the State of New Mexico,  supervised by D’Nae Johnson, LCSW. She received her Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing, from New Mexico State University. Her professional career for the next 9 years ranged from small business owner to non-profit management. Almost 10 years after obtaining her BAA, she returned to school to pursue a degree in social work. Valerie achieved this goal in 2021, from Western New Mexico University with a graduate certificate in Rural Community Social Work Services.

Valerie’s experience in social services includes working with children and adolescents ranging from ages 6 -18. She has worked with teens in the Juvenile Community Corrections, emphasizing Restorative Justice practices. She provided counseling services at the middle school level for students with exceptionalities, with a fluent understanding of Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). Prior to joining the PBCG team, she served as a Director at the Boys & Girls Club of Carlsbad, providing services to local youth of all demographics.

Valerie enjoys working with youth and their families, providing support & and promoting inclusivity. She emphasizes self-efficacy in each client’s ability to overcome the obstacles in their lives, through development of coping tools and cognitive restructuring.