Valerie holds a Masters in Applied Psychology from the University of Queensland, Australia and a Bachelor in Arts, majoring in Sociology and Psychology from the University of Sydney. She has been practising as a Counselling Psychologist since 2012.  

Valerie began her early career in the drug rehabilitation services, an experience that sparked her deep curiosity and passion for understanding trauma and abuse. During her residency in Sydney and Brisbane, Valerie volunteered and worked with a spectrum of client profiles under EAP services, and locums in the rural, gaining valuable insight into the varying life adversities and association with mental health conditions. 

Over nine years with the Clinical and Forensic Psychological Services at Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF), Valerie has developed expertise in systemic work, particularly for children and youths presenting with high risks and needs. Valerie has been certified as a Master Trainer for Trauma Systems Therapy since 2017 and served as Clinical Consultant for all three Therapeutic Group Homes between 2020 to 2024. Notably, Valerie authored a core training module (Trauma-Informed Practices, Fostering Edition) for professionals in the fostering service, which was recognised for an Innovation Award in 2018 from Gov Insider.  

As the head of the HCSA Dayspring care team, Valerie hopes to leverage her wealth of clinical and operational experiences to create impactful, holistic interventions that empower individuals and families in need.