I attended Western Carolina and studied Social work in the 1970's. After working at Appalachian Hall for a few years, attended UNC-Chapel Hill to obtain my MSW, Master of Clinical Social Work. This is where I learned from some amazing folks, many of whom are friends and colleagues to this day. Due to anxiety, stress and alcohol overuse, I began individual therapy and later group therapy at Southeast Institute. Over the next few years I was involved in the training program in Redecision Therapy with Vann Joines Ph.D and later therapy groups. I was also very active in the NC Society for Clinical Social Work and served as president in the late 1980's. I am amazed when I think of all the teachers and colleagues I have learned from over the years. I continue to hone new techniques, skills and theories in this ever evolving field while holding on to the basics.