The Power of Validation
with Dr. Tracy Cavaligos and Dr. Erin Hoolihan
Episode 3, Season 5 | September 23, 2024
Show Notes
In this new podcast episode we explore the meaning of validation and why it’s one of the most effective communication strategies for parents and caregivers. Although the term validation is often used, many people aren’t entirely sure what it really means or how to use it in conversations with others, including youth. Validation helps youth feel heard, understood, and valued, creating a strong emotional connection and goes beyond simply agreeing or offering comfort; it’s about acknowledging and accepting a child’s feelings as real and important. With CHC expert psychologists, Dr. Erin Hoolihan and Dr. Tracy Cavaligos, we talk about how to break down the steps to effectively validate emotions and share practical examples of how to respond in common scenarios where validation is key. This is one you will want to listen to again and again!
Guest Info
Tracy Cavaligos, PsyD
Licensed Psychologist at CHC
Dr. Tracy Cavaligos (she/her/hers) has dedicated her career to working holistically with children, adolescents, young adults and their families to support their mental health. She strives to provide compassionate and collaborative therapeutic care to youth and their families in managing anxiety, mood concerns, ADHD, relational difficulties, adjusting to life transitions including chronic medical diagnoses and adherence, gender and sexuality support and identity development. Tracy has continually sought specialized training in order to provide developmentally appropriate, affirmative and supportive mental health care to youth with chronic illnesses (such as GI disorders, cancer, and diabetes) and gender diverse youth. She also provides comprehensive psychological assessments for youth with attention and learning concerns.
Erin Hoolihan, PsyD
Licensed Psychologist at CHC
Dr. Erin Concepcion Hoolihan (she/her/hers) is a licensed clinical psychologist with experience providing comprehensive psychological assessment and psychotherapy to youth and families. Dr. Hoolihan graduated with honors from Santa Clara University with a BS in psychology and went on to complete her MA and PsyD in Clinical Psychology at the University of Indianapolis, with an emphasis in Child and Adolescent psychology. At the University of Indianapolis, Dr. Hoolihan conducted research that focused on perceptions of justice, social capital, diversity and inequity. Dr. Hoolihan has worked with youth and families presenting with a range of clinical concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, self-harm/suicidality, inattention and hyperactivity and adjustment to new life circumstances. Dr. Hoolihan completed her APA accredited predoctoral internship for the county of San Bernardino in Southern California, and her APA accredited postdoctoral residency on the Child and Adolescent team for Kaiser Permanente in Daly City.
Resources
Learn more about CHC’s Clinical Services
Learn more about Evaluations
Tips for Communicating with Your Teen
7 Expert Tips for Talking with Teens
Conversation Tools for Talking with Teens
Teen Not Talking? Here’s How to Break the Silence
Validation – What It is and Why It’s Important
Validating Your Child’s Emotions
Preparing for Adolescence – Voices of Compassion Episode
