CHRISTINE VALDEZ, PH.D., ABPP

Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Board Certified in Clinical Psychology
Trauma Treatment Specialist
Associate Professor of Psychology, CSUMB

Hello, I’m Christine. I work with high-functioning professionals who feel stuck in patterns shaped by trauma—patterns that can affect relationships, sense of self, and overall well-being despite outward success.

I am a board-certified clinical psychologist (ABPP), a distinction held by a small percentage of licensed psychologists, and an Associate Professor of Psychology at California State University, Monterey Bay. For over a decade, my clinical and research work has focused on trauma, particularly recovery from interpersonal violence. I have published over 25 peer-reviewed articles examining the cognitive and emotional processes that contribute to traumatic stress and healing.

My approach is grounded in trauma-informed care and a deep understanding of the psychological, biological, and relational impacts of trauma. I aim to provide a space that is thoughtful, steady, and responsive to your individual experiences—one where you feel both supported and actively engaged in the work of change.

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In our work together, I take a collaborative and active approach. We focus on understanding longstanding patterns, developing new ways of relating to yourself and others, and moving toward meaningful, sustained change. I integrate evidence-based treatments with a nuanced understanding of each client’s history, values, and goals.

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My work is informed by the stages of trauma recovery. Early in treatment, we focus on building stability and a sense of safety. As therapy progresses, we work toward processing and integrating difficult experiences so they are no longer defining or overwhelming. Ultimately, the goal is to support you in developing a more grounded sense of self, strengthening relationships, and moving forward with greater clarity and intention.

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I maintain a small, focused psychotherapy practice so that I can work with a small number of clients in a thoughtful, in-depth way. My approach is thoughtful, direct, and grounded in both science and clinical experience.

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My approach tends to be a good fit for individuals who are thoughtful, motivated for change, and interested in a more in-depth, collaborative process.

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I am licensed to work with individuals residing in California, Texas, and Florida.

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Licenses and Certifications: ​​​

• 2023, Board Certified in Clinical Psychology, American Board of Professional Psychology. Certification Number: 10409​

• 2016, Licensed Psychologist, State of California. License Number: PSY28590

  • State of Texas. Temporary License #NTLP-24-0103-19596​

  • State of Florida. Telehealth Registration #TPPY3014

• 2013, Cognitive Processing Therapy Certified Provider, Department of Veterans Affairs

Education: ​

• 2016, Postdoctoral Fellow, University of California-San Francisco, Trauma Recovery Center (TRC)

• 2015, APA-Accreditted Predoctoral Internship, University of California-San Francisco, TRC

• 2015, Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, Northern Illinois University

• 2013, Predoctoral Externship, Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital, Trauma Services Program