Description:
Transgenerational Birth Trauma (TBT) refers to the intersection of traumatic birth experiences and the transmission of psychological distress across generations. Despite the documented effects of transgenerational trauma, TBT remains a critical gap in research and practice. This presentation explores the clinical implications of TBT, particularly among immigrant mothers and families. Somatic memories of traumatic birth experiences can be transmitted, leading to strained mother-newborn relationships, attachment issues, behavioral problems, suicidal ideation, and relational difficulties. Addressing TBT is crucial for developing effective interventions and support systems. By acknowledging and exploring TBT, we can better understand its far-reaching consequences for mental health, relationships, and overall well-being across generations.
Objectives:
Participants will:
- Understand the concept of TBT, its symptoms, and how it perpetuates psychopathology, psychological vulnerability, and distress across generations.
- Learn how TBT affects mother-infant attachment, child behavior, and overall well-being, and how this impacts family dynamics and relationships.
About the Presenter:
Dr. Valli is an award-winning, nationally recognized trauma-informed mental health counselor and counselor educator. She holds a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in counseling and counselor education from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG). Her previous degrees include a Master of Science in clinical mental health counseling, a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. Currently, she serves as a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Oregon. She is the owner and founder of Soulfulness Counseling, LLC, a private practice dedicated to serving women who have been exposed to early childhood trauma, in addition to being a Clinical Faculty at Southern New Hampshire university. An expert on minority women’s mental health needs, she has served as a consultant and speaker for several nonprofits and agencies. In addition to her numerous service roles, she also serves as the Associate Editor for The Professional Counselor, an open-access peer-reviewed counseling journal dedicated to advancing knowledge in the counseling field. As a counselor educator, Dr. Valli maintains a special commitment to experiential education when training graduate students in counseling. Her expertise in counseling skills, assessment in counseling, and trauma and crisis counseling are deeply appreciated by her colleagues and students. Her areas of research interest include international student mental health, AAPI mental health.
Currently, she serves as a full-time Clinical Faculty at Southern New Hampshire University in the Counseling program. She also serves as an Adjunct Instructor in the Department of Counseling at Palo Alto University and Saybrook University.
She is a leader and change agent within the counseling profession and has spearheaded several grant-funded research initiatives which have been published in top-tier peer-reviewed counseling and allied journals. Dr. Valli is passionate about sustainability, gardening, and cooking. She enjoys connecting with land and natural beauty with her husband and baby boy.


This course is approved for 2 CE hours for LMHCs, LMFTs, LCSWs, and all associate-level licensees in Washington State
Washington Mental Health Association (WMHCA) has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 2079. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. WMHCA is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.
WMHCA Cancellation Policy
To receive a refund, less a $15 cancellation fee, cancellations must be made by contacting WMHCA at least 48 hours prior to workshop date. There will be no refunds within 48 hours of the workshop date. Please make sure you have the link 24 hours prior to the event starting.