Dr. Valeria Ana Penela received a Masters Degree in Psychology with honors from the University of Buenos Aires, Argentina. She earned a second Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University and a Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology from Ryokan College. Dr. Penela has a background working with adolescents, individuals, couples and groups. She has co-authored two books and published nationally and internationally on eating disorder treatment and eclectic models of psychotherapy.
Dr. Penela is a licensed clinical psychologist who provides individual therapy at PCH. She has over fifteen years of training and clinical experience working in adult inpatient, intensive day treatment and outpatient settings. She maintains a successful private practice in Westwood, working with individuals and couples. In addition, she teaches graduate courses in psychology at the University of Southern California, Antioch University and Pepperdine University. She also consults for publications and supervises interns and doctoral students.