Valerie Johnson-Cardoso

My communication style

My primary goal is for our sessions to be a safe place where you can say what you think and feel without judgment or condemnation. Respect is essential. We may not always agree, and that helps us learn to respect each other's differences.

My journey to mental healthcare

My early experiences taught me that judgment and condemnation don't provide an avenue for self-love. I learned to help others from my family and community. Forgiving myself and others helped me realize we all do the best we can with the information available. My goal is to be serene, at peace, and have joy, and to impart that to others.

My goals for you

You know yourself better than anyone else, and setting obtainable goals is important. As we strive for those goals, we may make adjustments and changes. That's what helps us reach them.

Our first session

The first session can feel fearful since you're meeting someone new. You can begin, or I can start if that helps. As you settle in, you can talk about subjects you'd like to address. You'll know when it's time. It's your journey and your decision.

I identify as...

• Female
• Caucasian or White, Hispanic or Latinx