Background

I am a registered Art Therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC012158) with over 8 years of clinical experience. I have a Bachelors of Science degree in Psychology and Art and a Masters of Science degree in Art Therapy, both from Florida State University. Throughout my career, I have worked in diverse clinical settings, from non-profits, to schools, to providing in-home therapy to at-risk youth. Most recently, I have worked in private practice in the Atlanta area focused on treating children, teens, and young adults.

Experience

Most of my life has been spent working with children and families in one way or another, and now being a mom of two girls, I am passionate about not only providing support to children, but making sure parents feel supported as well. Kids do not come with a handbook, (and despite reading several and taking many professional trainings) I find parenting to be the most incredible, rewarding, frustrating, challenging experience of my life. I know we can all use the help! I also aim to help moms in particular as they navigate the complexities of motherhood and balancing the mental load. Overall, I want kids and adults alike to leave their session feeling empowered and equipped for changes in their life to occur.

My expertise includes helping children, teens, and young adults with anxiety disorders, perfectionism, depression, OCD, low self-esteem, interpersonal skills, and trauma. I enjoy working with neurodiverse individuals (Autism, ADHD, learning disabilities) and my fellow artists and creative types too (but you do not have to be an artist to work with me). As an INFJ and someone who was labeled “the quiet kid” growing up, I am also passionate about helping people find their own voice, embrace their differences, and develop a positive and confident sense of self.

Therapeutic Approach

Central to my therapeutic approach is the belief that art serves as a powerful medium for expression and healing. By incorporating art-making into my sessions, I believe clients are given an additional tool to communicate and navigate difficult emotions in a safe and tangible manner. I truly believe that creativity is integral to personal growth, problem-solving, and understanding our world.

While art therapy is an important part of my practice, I also integrate traditional talk therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) techniques, parent coaching, and mindfulness skills into sessions. I have additional training as a Positive Discipline parenting educator, in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and Exposure Response and Prevention (ERP) training. My goal is to tailor these interventions and my professional training to meet the unique needs and preferences of each person.

Interests

Outside of my sessions, most of my time is spent with my husband and two girls. We love exploring local parks, coffee shops, or going on day trips to the zoo or aquarium. I also love traveling and am always scheming to go somewhere! In addition to being an art therapist, I am a photographer and own Jess Vallor Photography which serves as my own artistic outlet and another way to work with families. Motherhood, art therapy, and photography each fulfill an important piece of my life and push me to live creatively.