Valerie Odini Ngatta
Research Assistant
Valerie Odini Ngatta is a research assistant working on the NeuroGAP Psychosis II study, which explores genetic and environmental factors associated with psychosis. Her role involves participant engagement, recruitment, data collection, assessments, and ensuring adherence to study protocols and ethical standards.
Valerie is a Counseling Psychologist with a Bachelor of Arts in Counseling Psychology from the University of Nairobi and over three years of experience across clinical practice and mental health research. Her journey began as a Psychologist Intern at Kenyatta National Hospital, where she built her foundation in psychological assessment and counselling. She later became a Clinical Supervisor on AFRIMEB’s Project Anansi in Machakos and Makueni Counties, providing counselling and supervising fellows delivering school-based mental health interventions. She then transitioned into clinical research, growing into a Research Assistant and Team Lead with experience in participant recruitment, assessments, data collection, community engagement, and research coordination. Today, she brings her clinical, research, and leadership experience to the NeuroGAP study, driven by a passion for understanding psychosis and contributing to meaningful mental health research.
Valerie is naturally curious about people, life, and how things work. She enjoys listening to people’s stories, learning from different perspectives, and finding ways to make things better. Her passion for mental health and research, especially understanding psychosis in the African context, keeps her inspired. She also loves learning, working with a good team, taking on new challenges, and knowing that what she does has a purpose.
Valerie is a Registered Psychologist with the Counsellors and Psychologists (C&P) Board. She enjoys learning, connecting with people, and being part of a supportive team. She values meaningful conversations, community, and exploring new experiences both in and outside of work. Curious by nature, she believes in continuous growth and is always open to learning something new.
