I have dedicated my life to helping people improve their quality of life and find hope in life's challenges. I take my therapeutic commitment seriously, guiding people to create solutions that suit their unique circumstances. I work within a cognitive-behavioral framework, and trained as a generalist able to use a number of therapy techniques. I work with anxiety and depressive issues, as well as child custody issues. I have extensive experience as an acknowledged court expert in multiple counties dealing with child custody cases. I admit to a unique sense of humor and a realistic perspective. I grew up in a small town in Appalachia, moved to a metropolitan area in Illinois for my graduate education, then returned to the Tri Cities area in 1988, where I raised my children. Art is a very therapeutic tool to express emotions. I have received some success with my multimedia acrylic artwork. I have worked with therapy dogs and other therapy animals and believe strongly in the benefits of a loving relationship with a pet.