Today, we’d like to introduce you to Jeanine Vallatini. Jeanine was introduced to us by the brilliant and talented Carla Calderas.
Hi Jeanine, we’re so thrilled to have you sharing your story with us today. Maybe we can kick things off by having you introduce yourself to our readers? We’d love to have you go into your story and how you got to where you are today.
My journey to where I am today was not a typical one. In college, I originally intended on becoming a dentist. However, I quickly learned that was not the right path for me. After changing my major, I ended up graduating with a degree in human nutrition and foods from the University of Houston. I knew I did not want to pursue that career but I was so far into it I had to graduate. Upon graduation, I then felt very lost. Finding a job was not an easy task and a good friend of mine mentioned becoming a teacher. I continued with the certification process and by that summer I was a certified teacher in the state of Texas. I was a 5th grade teacher for 4 years. During those 4 years, I knew one thing for sure: I loved teaching. However, I loved listening and supporting my students more. Education was such an incredible way for me to be able to reach so many students at once. I then pursued my masters in school counseling and set off to become a middle school counselor for 3 years. Being a school counselor gave me the skills I needed to become the counselor I am today. As much as I enjoyed being a school counselor, I knew I wanted to do more one-on-one work with clients. Transitioning from education to private practice has taught me so much. I truly love being there for my clients alongside them during their most difficult times. It’s such an honor for them to share their stories with me. Growing up, I was always the friend who people went to when they needed an ear or a shoulder to lean on. I’m so grateful to do this for all my clients.
Let’s talk about your work and career – what else should we know?
Being a mental health therapist means being able to support others in ways they didn’t know possible. I enjoy making connections and truly getting to know my clients so that I know how to best serve them. Ultimately, my clients know themselves better than anyone and I’m able to help them realize that. What I love most about my work is when I help clients discover things about themselves that they did not know before. I am primarily a person-centered therapist, but I also incorporate other theories including cognitive behavioral therapy and solution focused brief therapy as well. I truly enjoy working with teens and young adults. I utilize mindfulness techniques and provide a safe therapeutic space free from any judgement. I have experience working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, stress, grief, self-harm, anger issues, and low self-esteem. Regardless of what life throws at my clients, I am here to listen and empower them by providing tools necessary to take on life’s challenges.
Carla Calderas and Calderas Counseling have been great to us and I know you’ve got a great relationship with them as well. Maybe you can tell our audience a bit about Carla Calderas and Calderas Counseling and your experience with them.
I stumbled upon Carla’s practice while searching for a position at a private practice. Carla was quick to respond and we instantly connected. I loved her vision and values she has for her practice and felt that they aligned with who I am as a therapist. Carla is such a pleasure to work with! She is very detailed oriented and values each of her employees deeply. She is always available and is always open to supporting me when I need it. I really appreciate the effort she has put into creating a safe space for my clients and myself.
