Valerie Hoover, PhD

ABOUT DR. HOOVER I am a licensed clinical psychologist in California (PSY 27563). If we end up working together, I will help you to build insight into the issue bringing you to therapy, and to develop tools to address the root of the issue and improve functioning in your daily life. I was trained in the scientist-practitioner model, which means that I bring research-based approaches to assessment and treatment to help ensure the best outcomes in therapy. I have expertise in treating a range of disorders and issues (see "Specialties" below). However, the heart of my practice can be summed up as follows: I take joy in working with clients to become "unstuck" from the cycles of painful thoughts, emotions and behaviors that prevent them from participating whole-heartedly in life. WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A PSYCHOLOGIST AND A PSYCHIATRIST? Psychologists have a PhD degree and provide psychotherapy (or "therapy" for short), and psychiatrists have a MD degree and prescribe medication. I am a psychologist. WHAT TO EXPECT IN THERAPY INITIAL ASSESSMENT: In the initial 1 to 2 sessions I'll conduct a comprehensive assessment, which includes gathering information about the particular issue that brings you to therapy, as well as information about your relationships, mental health history, education and job history, and cultural, religious, racial, and ethnic factors. You are free to not answer any questions that you choose, but in general the more information I have, the more I can be of help. TREATMENT: After the initial assessment is complete, I will provide verbal feedback and recommendations/options for moving forward. Recommendations may include, but are not limited to, therapy (either with me, or referral to another therapist if I determine that the issue is outside my area of expertise), referral for medication evaluation (typically to a psychiatrist or your primary care provider), and/or connection to other resources/supports. TRACKING PROGRESS: During your initial assessment, and periodically throughout treatment, I will ask you to complete questionnaires to assess your symptoms/functioning and progress towards your therapy goals. I will also check in with you periodically about your general satisfaction with our sessions and your progress.