Valda is one of The Hart Centre’s psychologists, working with individuals, couples and groups in both long- and short-term psychotherapy and counselling. Her therapeutic style is integrative, drawing on diverse theories to suit each client’s needs and preferences. She has more than 30 years’ experience as an individual, couples and group therapist, and is also a certified family mediator. She is a full member of the Australian Psychological Society. Born and raised in Brazil, Valda also speaks Portuguese.
Relationship counselling is one of her passions. She has extensive experience working with couples in distress, including same-sex couples and cross-cultural relationships. She also assists couples who are planning cohabitation or marriage, blending families, or considering a separation or divorce. She provides counselling for sexual addictions and other behavioural addictions (not including active substance addictions, such as alcohol and drugs).
Creating a safe environment, where individual and cultural differences are valued and confidentiality is taken seriously, is central to her approach. She enjoys helping clients solve problems and develop the full potential of their relationships.