My Story
In 1985, I began work in Occupational Therapy, focusing on therapeutic treatment of mental illness and brain injuries; continuing in this field for 23 years as I worked my way through graduate school for Clinical Psychology. But events in my life prevented employment in this chosen field, and even forcing me to divert from psychology all together in order to survive financial problems and work several unrelated jobs: in-home healthcare worker, installing satellite systems, and eventually becoming HVAC certified (heating and air-conditioning). In 2012, I was hired by the State of Arkansas to provide treatment services in their Department of Community Corrections. From here I developed the approach of Integrated Self-Realization.
I am a Certified Co-occurring Disorders Professional – Diplomate with the State of Arkansas, along with IC&RC Certificate (International Credentialing) for providing mental health treatment as it relates to substance abuse (Addiction).
Also certified by the Arkansas Commission on Law Enforcement Standards and Training as a Specialized Law Enforcement Instructor.
While providing services for Arkansas Community Corrections, it became apparent that the evidence-based practices were not addressing the root cause promoting the addictions we were seeing. Something deeper was going on, the recidivism rate was stable but not dropping, and individuals were able to achieve sobriety but not recovery. They weren’t having life changing events; instead, just trying to ‘fake it till you make it’ and get off probation/parole. This is when I discovered trauma and neglect in childhood and adolescence were the key to recovery.
I now know if addictions were to be eradicated from an individual’s life, especially with this population, then the painful memory and effects of childhood trauma must end. I developed a therapeutic approach of Integrated Self-Realization which is grounded in Jungian Psychoanalysis and heavily influenced by Internal Family Systems Therapy. It’s from these two schools of thought I wrote my book, as an extra tool for others who struggle with Personality Disorders/Traits feeling forever trapped by addiction and the legal system. I remain dedicated to raising awareness about addiction within the criminal justice system and promoting holistic approaches to healing during recovery.
"He who learns must suffer. And even in our sleep, Pain that cannot forget, Falls drop by drop upon the heart, And in our own despair, Against our will, Comes Wisdom to us, By the awful grace of God"
~Aeschylus~
Curriculum Vitae
Certified Co-occurring Disorders Professional - Diplomate (CCDP-D)
[International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium]​
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​Specialized knowledge and skills in the treatment of both mental health and substance use disorders. 'Diplomate' is an advanced level of certification that demonstrates greater expertise and experience in co-occurring disorders treatment.
Drug Court Advisor
19th East and 12th Circuit Courts in Arkansas.
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Helping individuals navigate the drug court program, ensuring they receive necessary support and treatment to achieve long-term recovery.
Substance Abuse Program Leader
Arkansas Department of Corrections
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Responsible for leading and managing substance abuse treatment programs for offenders, including assessment, treatment planning, counseling, and reporting. Also supervise staff, educate the public, and implement evidence-based treatment practices.
As a Certified Co-occurring Disorders Professional - Diplomate (CCDP-D) in Arkansas, I have extensive experience in treating mental illness as it directly relates to addiction. ​I also hold a certification as a Specialized Law Enforcement Instructor. ​I was a Drug Court Advisor for the 3rd and the 14th Judicial Districts from March 2012 - April 2013. A Substance Abuse Program Leader with the Arkansas Department of Corrections, Area-2 March 2013 - March 2022. Currently, providing Recovery Coaching through Inner Pursuit of Happiness October 2022 - Present.
Years of Professional Practice
With a proven track record of success, my combined expertise, compassion, and innovation enable me to deliver transformative guidance for individuals seeking freedom from addiction and trauma.