About Valerie G. Woods

I'm an Unashamed AI Advocate

Let me be direct: I use artificial intelligence extensively in my research and writing process, and I'm completely transparent about it.

Some authors use AI secretly while publicly avoiding the topic. I find that approach dishonest. I use AI openly and teach others how to use it responsibly and effectively.

AI doesn't replace my four decades of professional experience, my MA in Psychology, or my expertise in research methodology. It amplifies them. Just as a carpenter uses power tools to work more efficiently without compromising craftsmanship, I use AI to research faster, organize more effectively, and reach more readers in multiple languages.

Here's what AI does for me:

• Accelerates research and fact-checking

• Helps me synthesize complex studies into accessible frameworks

• Enables me to translate my work into multiple languages

• Allows me to publish more books and help more people

Here's what AI doesn't do:

• Replace my clinical judgment or professional expertise

• Make strategic decisions about content or methodology

• Substitute for the decades of experience I bring to each book

• Diminish the evidence-based rigor behind every framework I teach

The resistance to AI in publishing often comes from fear, misunderstanding, or gatekeeping.

As someone with 40+ years of professional experience built on rigorous research methodology, I can tell you with confidence: AI is a tool, and like any tool, its value depends on who's using it and how.

A novice with AI won't suddenly produce expert-level work. But an experienced professional with AI can work smarter, reach more people, and have a greater impact. That's not cheating—that's evolution.

I believe AI is a democratizing force in publishing. It levels the playing field so that experienced professionals can share their knowledge more widely, and emerging authors can compete with traditional publishers. If you want to learn from someone who embraces evidence-based innovation while maintaining professional standards, you're in the right place.

I Write Under Two Names—Each With a Purpose

While I'm known as Valerie G Woods on this platform, I publish under three distinct pen names, each serving readers in different ways:

Justina Jones - Creative Expression & Mindfulness Coloring books for adults and children designed to promote creativity, relaxation, and mindful engagement.

Whether you're seeking stress relief or want to encourage artistic exploration in young learners, these books provide accessible, enjoyable experiences for all skill levels.

Valerie Futo - For the love of crafting: Creative Expression & Mindfulness: Modern Rug Hooking patterns designed to promote creativity, relaxation, and mindful engagement. Patterns are available on TheHookingNest.com

Valerie G Woods - Research-Based Guidance for Parents & Authors

Evidence-backed nonfiction for parents seeking effective strategies and indie authors navigating the publishing journey. These books provide practical frameworks and actionable steps grounded in research. No guesswork, just results.

Different names, same commitment: practical, trustworthy content backed by decades of experience and enhanced by modern tools.

Professional Background

I hold a degree in Psychology and have spent my career at the intersection of research, clinical practice, and family services. My professional experience includes working at a psychiatric institute and providing social services support to families, followed by years as a research analyst, where I honed my ability to distill complex research into actionable insights.

This unique combination—academic training, hands-on family work, and research expertise—informs every book I write. I specialize in translating evidence-based psychological frameworks into practical tools that parents, authors, and learners can actually use.

While I'm not a practicing clinician, my background ensures that my work is grounded in peer-reviewed research, proven therapeutic approaches, and a real-world understanding of what families need.