Valerie Slattery

Making the decision to help a child or teen who is struggling academically, behaviorally, socially and/or emotionally may be the most important decision you make for your child or teen. I see each child as a puzzle. Sometimes the pieces fit together perfectly and other times it is necessary to work really hard to find the right piece to complete the puzzle. I use a variety of techniques - child centered play therapy, sand therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy. I believe that a child is part of a larger system, including parents, siblings, and schools. I strive to work with all aspects of a child's/teen's world.

I see children and teens with anxiety, depression, trauma, selective mutism, low self-esteem, ADHD, learning disabilities, friendship concerns including bullying, school refusal, and Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder. I also work with families who are going through a separation or divorce. I believe that a child or a teen needs to find their voice and a safe space to explore thoughts and feelings.

I am nationally certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and have advanced training in CBT and Child Centered Play Therapy. I also conduct psychoeducational/neuropsychological evaluations - ages three through young adults. Testing encompasses: cognitive assessment; achievement testing; processing abilities; attention; memory; language, executive functioning. I administer Admissions tests for the Washington area Independent Schools.

I hold two doctoral degrees - one in Special Education/Learning Disabilities and the second in Clinical Psychology/Child and Adolescent. I completed a postdoctoral program in neuropsychology and have advanced training and certification in cognitive-behavioral therapy, play therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and children with sexual behavior problems. I am licensed in both Maryland and Washington, DC. In addition, teletherapy is an option. Please visit my website: www.drvalerieslattery.com.