Valerie studied at the University of Otago, graduating with a PhD in Neuroscience and Psychology and a Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Psychology. She enjoys working with adults from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures, supporting people to build meaningful lives that align with their values.
Valerie has a particular interest in pharmacopsychology, the intersection between psychological processes and psychotropic medication use. She works closely with a Marleen (clinical pharmacist) in the deprescribing space, bringing a pharmacopsychology lens to assessment and formulation. Her work focuses on understanding the psychological, biological and contextual factors that can influence people's experiences of psychotropic medication and medication withdrawal, and supporting people to make informed decisions about antidepressants within the context of their individual circumstances, values and goals.