Angie Valente, PhD.
About Angie:
Schererville resident.
Bachelor of Arts degree with distinction in psychology from University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.
Master's degree in clinical psychology from Northern Illinois University.
Doctorate in clinical psychology from Northern Illinois University.
Accomplishments: Dr. Angie Valente is a therapist at New Leaf Resources, a professional mental health agency with offices in Crown Point, Lansing and Elmhurst. She counsels adults with divorce issues and offers a variety of approaches in working with children, adolescents and families. Valente helps clients gain coping skills to deal with anxiety, depression, ADHD, oppositional behaviors and pervasive developmental disorders including autism. She works with children dealing with trauma and services DeMotte Christian School and other Christian schools in the area one day a week. Valente tailors counseling to each developmental stage and involves youth in role playing, helping them deal with issues such as bullying. "It's a chance for the kids to practice skills and provide each other feedback with how to handle bullying situations," she said. "It means a lot to me to be able to work with children. It's been a really meaningful experience." Valente can assist clients from a Christian
perspective as well. "We can integrate spiritual principles as the client wants and that's very meaningful, too," she said.
What's most rewarding about your work? "Being able to see people, children, grow and change. That's really rewarding for me to see someone get empowered and do something better and different with their lives."
Personal hero: "I admire people who are very passionate about their work. Truly giving to others, that's what inspires me."
What I read: "I like to read fantasy novels like Lord of the Rings'."
Advice: "The flower that blooms in adversity is the rare and most beautiful of all. Look deep within for the strength and connect with people in your life to get through difficulties and to find that power within."
How to get involved: New Leaf Resources has offices at 2325 177th St. in Lansing, (708) 895-7310, and 11065 Broadway, Suite B in Crown Point, (219) 226-1810. For more information, visit www.newleafresources.org
- SUE BERO, Times Correspondent
To nominate someone for this feature, e-mail slbero@hotmail.com
