Valerie’s professional career spans over four decades. She graduated from Dalhousie University with her Master's degree in Social Work, and has attended numerous training and workshops to expand her knowledge. Her work experience has been with groups, families, and individuals in Mental Health fields. She started her career as a Caseworker with the Department of Health and Community Services counselling two parent families, single parents, young mothers, senior citizens, and individuals. Previously she was employed with School District 20 and was a team member of Pupil Evaluation Services. The remainder of her career was in mental health services with Centracare and Mental Health Services. She also was part of the Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Services Team at the Saint John Regional Hospital conducting assessments, delivering family and individual counselling, and coordinating services with team members as well as agencies in the community. Since her retirement, she has worked as a Contractor with Family Plus.