The work of clinical psychologist Graciela Val falls into two categories: assessing patients with deformities and conducting therapy sessions with those who need ongoing support.

Children with cleft lip and palate are a sizeable portion of her caseload.

“I answer parents’ questions and guide them through what they need to do. As these children get older, we need to empower them to know it’s not their fault.”

Children with cleft lip and palate often develop speech defects, cognitive deficits or learning disorders. With early psychological assessment, Val can help them get the treatment and education they need.

How early? Even newborns with birth defects are referred to Val.

“Babies don’t see themselves,” explains Val. “Parents are their mirrors; if parents are anxious, depressed or react with alarm, the child feels and absorbs it.”

Val also sees patients with facial deformities caused by accidents or diseases like cancer. Though the miracles of plastic surgery and prostheses can repair a lot of the external injuries, self-image can be harder to restore.

“People often feel ashamed and alone and believe that relationships may never be the same,” Val says.

“They may be depressed and avoid the world because they anticipate ridicule and rejection.”

But acceptance is possible. One patient is a vivid example. The 16-year-old boy, who was in a wheelchair, had serious congenital defects that required several surgeries on his face and body.

Nevertheless, “he did his best in school and sports,” Val says.

“He played basketball with his high school team around the country, inspiring everyone whether they have deformities or not.”

Above: Psychologist Graciela Val with special dolls to help children understand their images.

Photo: Roberta Dupuis-Devlin