About

My name is Valerie Ignatenko, and I am a licensed psychologist in the state of Nevada. I live in the Gardnerville/Reno/Tahoe area, and have worked in the field of counseling and psychology for over 20 years, in a variety of different settings. I'm glad that you are considering therapy and making strides toward better health. I have been in the field of psychotherapy for over 20 years and have had experience working with many different groups and problem areas. Much of my work has been in the area of chronic mental illness and substance abuse. I have also worked with children with behavior problems, and with children and adults living with depression, anxiety, and other mental disorders. I also have experience working with diverse populations and members of the LGBT community, and I have worked with families, couples, divorcees, partnered and single people. I have been trained and utilize both traditional and alternative treatment modalities, and always work to find the right treatment for each individual. My approach to therapy is integrative; I will use the techniques and strategies that would best suit your needs. I have been trained and have experience in using a wide range of interventions, including those that have been found to be evidence based, including cognitive-behavioral approaches and dialectical behavioral therapy. I take a strengths based approach to all clients, and frame each of my sessions with both a humanistic and an existential approach. Psychodynamic theories and interpersonal psychotherapy also play a role in my conceptualization of client concerns. I completed my doctoral training at West Virginia University, with a PhD in Counseling Psychology. Prior to this, I completed my Bachelor's Degree at the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown in English Literature and Secondary Education, and my Master's Degree at Indiana University of Pennsylvania in Community Counseling.

Outside of being a therapist, I enjoy spending time with my animals. I have a dog, Pickle, and a cat, Lucy. I also enjoy outdoors activities, such as kayaking, biking, camping, hiking, and love music. I am also an avid gardener, and have knowledge in the area of herbs and herbal medicine. Additionally, I utilize drumming and rhythm in both my personal and professional life. Drumming helps me re-center myself and helps clients in a number of ways. I would be happy to discuss with you how rhythm could benefit you and your family.

I welcome you to engage in your personal journey and I would be honored to help you along the way. I look forward to hearing from you. Please let me know how I can help.