Dr. Marie Valsaint, Psy.D. - Therapist

Education:

Dr. Marie Valsaint, Psy.D is a dedicated clinician with a passion for improving mental health and well-being in diverse communities. Dr. Valsaint's journey in psychology began with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Sociology from Florida Atlantic University in 2014, followed by a Master of Arts in Psychology from Alliant International University in San Diego in 2017.

Her educational journey culminated in earning her Doctor of Clinical Psychology from Alliant International University in 2022, where she underwent rigorous training in evidence-based therapies and psychological assessment. Dr. Marie's academic pursuits were paralleled by her commitment to multicultural competency development, serving as a Graduate Teaching Assistant in various psychology programs.

Clinical Philosophy:

Dr. Marie Valsaint, Psy.D., draws upon a wealth of extensive and diversified clinical experience gained across various therapeutic settings. In her role as a Primary Counselor within a residential dual diagnosis program, she adeptly provided individual and family therapy to adults, skillfully navigating the complexities of co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. Additionally, Dr. Marie facilitated group therapy sessions, fostering a collaborative environment conducive to healing and growth.

During her tenure as a Post-Doctoral Intern, Dr. Marie delivered evidence-based treatments tailored to address mood-related symptoms, substance use issues, and trauma-related experiences among adult clients in residential settings. Her dedication to providing holistic care was evident in her comprehensive approach to treatment planning and implementation.

Furthermore, Dr. Marie's professional contributions extend to her work with children and families, where she provided therapeutic interventions and conducted psychological evaluations to inform treatment strategies. As a Doctoral Psychology Intern, she actively engaged in community outreach efforts, advocating for mental health awareness and access to resources. Dr. Marie's clinical proficiency shines through her roles as a Mental Health Therapist/Evaluator and PSR Specialist, where she offered compassionate therapy to clients grappling with mood disorders, psychotic disorders, personality disorders, PTSD, and co-occurring conditions.

Clinical Expertise:

Dr. Marie Valsaint, Psy.D., is a highly skilled clinician with a comprehensive toolkit of evidence-based practices to address a broad spectrum of mental health concerns. Her expertise is enriched by specialized training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Dr. Marie embraces an eclectic approach, drawing from a diverse array of therapeutic modalities to tailor treatment plans that best suit her clients' needs. She often incorporates mindfulness-based techniques into her interventions, recognizing their value in promoting holistic well-being.

Dr. Marie's commitment to cultural competence and community engagement is evident throughout her practice. She actively pursues multicultural competency development, continually seeking to deepen her understanding of diverse cultural perspectives to better serve her clients. Furthermore, she is dedicated to community outreach efforts aimed at increasing mental health awareness and access to resources.

Dr. Marie's passion for trauma-informed care is exemplified by her certification as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP-I). This credential reflects her unwavering dedication to recognizing and addressing the complex impact of trauma on individuals' mental health.

With her extensive clinical background and dedication to professional development, Dr. Marie Valsaint stands as a seasoned professional committed to improving mental health outcomes for individuals from diverse backgrounds and communities.

Approach to Therapy:

Dr. Marie's therapeutic philosophy is deeply rooted in person-centered and culturally sensitive principles, reflecting her commitment to providing a nurturing and inclusive environment for her clients. She places a strong emphasis on fostering safety and trust within the therapeutic relationship, ensuring that individuals feel empowered to explore their thoughts and emotions without judgment.

Central to Dr. Marie's approach is her unwavering dedication to empathy, respect, and kindness, which guides her interactions with clients. She recognizes the importance of tailoring interventions to address the unique needs and experiences of each individual, allowing for a personalized and effective therapeutic journey.

Dr. Marie specializes in working with clients dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, stress management, and relationship difficulties, with a particular focus on mother-daughter relationships. Drawing from her expertise in these areas, she offers specialized support and guidance to help individuals navigate and heal from complex relational dynamics.

Clinical research:

Dr. Marie’s professional journey includes contributions across various domains including clinical psychology, research, education, and advocacy. Her academic exploration has crossed diverse terrains, delving into nuanced topics such as posttraumatic growth in cross-cultural contexts and the ramifications of early separation experiences on attachment and well-being, particularly within the Haitian immigrant community.

Dr. Valsaint's scholarly endeavors have garnered recognition, with her research findings presented at esteemed platforms such as the American Psychological Association’s Annual Convention. Furthermore, her insights have been disseminated through publications in Trauma Psychology magazine, showcasing her commitment to advancing knowledge within the field.

Beyond academia, Dr. Marie is involved in community service and has been a part of different organizations like the Association of Black Psychologists and have participated in initiatives like the Listen to Children mentorship program. Recognizing the significance of addressing mental health stigma within specific cultural contexts, she initiated "Haitians Thrive," a social media platform aimed at fostering dialogue and promoting mental wellness within the Haitian community.

In her clinical practice, Dr. Marie embodies the principles of cultural sensitivity and inclusivity. She approaches therapy with an understanding of the diverse backgrounds and experiences of her clients, striving to create a safe and supportive therapeutic environment. Dr. Marie's advocacy efforts extend beyond the therapy room, as she remains steadfast in her commitment to championing mental health equity and facilitating healing and well-being for all individuals.

About Dr. Marie:

Dr. Marie's world revolves around her delightful 3-year-old daughter, whom she cherishes as the greatest blessing in her life. Their bond is not just familial but also serves as a source of inspiration for Dr. Marie, igniting her passion for mommy-daughter adventures and activities that foster their connection.

Beyond her role as a devoted mother, Dr. Marie finds solace and rejuvenation in the embrace of nature. Her love for the great outdoors has led her on countless hiking expeditions across the diverse landscapes of California, where she revels in the therapeutic wonders of scenic trails and breathtaking vistas.

Ever the explorer, it is Dr. Marie’s dream to embark on a transformative journey through Asia, for its rich tapestry of experiences. From it diverse cultures and rich history to breathtaking natural landscapes, Asian cuisine, spiritual sites, vibrant cities, and thrilling adventure.

In addition to her adventurous spirit, Dr. Marie possesses a love for the art of dance. She harbors a secret desire to twirl gracefully across the dance floor and has set her sights on fulfilling this aspiration by taking ballet lessons. Dancing holds a special place in Dr. Marie's heart, offering her a means of self-expression and joyous liberation from the rigors of everyday life.