Christine Valdez

Christine Valdez is an Assistant Professor of Clinical Psychology at California State University, Monterey Bay (CSUMB), specializing in trauma-related research and clinical practice. She teaches courses such as Psychology Research Methods, Psychopathology, and Service Learning, emphasizing practical applications of psychology. Her research focuses on cognitive and emotional processes in posttraumatic sequelae, recovery from trauma, and interventions targeting interpersonal violence survivors. Dr. Valdez is affiliated with the University of California, San Francisco’s Trauma Recovery Center and leads the Trauma Outcomes and Recovery (TOAR) Lab at CSUMB. She also serves as the Early Career Psychologist Representative for APA’s Division 56 (Trauma Psychology). In clinical practice, she works part-time at Mind Therapy Clinic as a PTSD and Trauma Treatment Expert.

Her work bridges empirical research and community engagement, exemplified by initiatives like Communities Healing and Transforming Trauma (CHATT), a survivor-led advocacy program. Her research spans topics including trauma-related cognitions, dissociation’s effects on trauma symptoms, and self-compassion’s role in recovery. Over 15 years, her publications address diverse trauma populations, from foster youth to gang-involved individuals, emphasizing marginalized groups’ mental health needs.

Grants and collaborations include affiliations with UCSF’s trauma programs, while her teaching integrates real-world service learning to prepare students for clinical and research roles. Dr. Valdez actively mentors student researchers in trauma-focused projects, fostering the next generation of trauma psychologists.