About Me
For more than 20 years, I’ve supported people through profound transformation as an executive coach and leadership development expert. That work taught me how to navigate complexity, lead through change and create space for honest, meaningful conversations.
Growing up with my four grandparents was a special blessing that gave me a deep connection to my elders and the wisdom they carry. I’ve experienced the deaths of many loved ones and had the privilege to accompany a handful as they transitioned. All of this prepared me for what has become my calling — accompanying people through dying, grief, and the tender realities of being human.
I’m an intuitive empath who loves people and is deeply curious about what it means to be truly alive and the mysteries of death. In my experience, healing happens when we have the courage to be witnessed in all of our challenging messiness, not when things look or sound good. I hold space for this realness with presence, compassion and care.
The San Francisco Bay Area is where I call home. I love deep conversations, watercolor painting, walking among the redwoods, dancing to funk music, eating tacos, swimming in the ocean, dressing up for Halloween and working magic. I am a devoted mother, wife, daughter, aunt and friend. Every season of my life, and all of the losses I’ve experienced, have shaped the way I walk alongside others now.
Below are pictures from throughout my life that feature local nature, my artwork and beloved family members who have passed away.
Hello, I’m Valerie.
I am an End of Life Doula and Transitions Coach.
Education, Training & Certifications
UC Santa Cruz Bachelor’s Degrees in Politics and Women’s Studies
CoachU-trained Professional Coach
INELDA-trained End of Life Doula
National End of Life Doula Alliance Proficiency Badge Holder
SAGECare Inclusive Deathcare Badge holder
AADM Aid-in-Dying Training for End of Life Doulas Certificate
Insight Certified Celebrant and Life Tribute Professional (coming July 2026)
Stone Circles Collective Foundations of Ritual Class
Be Ceremonial Ceremony for Pregnancy-related Loss Workshop
Spirit Rock Meditation Center A Year to Live 2025 cohort
Sacred Art of Living & Dying Becoming Anamcara 2025 End of Life Cohort
Community
Volunteer Zen Caregiving Project
Volunteer Hospice East Bay
Co-host Island Death Café (Alameda, CA)
“Ask Me Anything” Booth at Alameda Farmer’s Market (Spring/Summer 2026)
Sangha Member East Bay Meditation Center