Post-Traumatic Stress Syndrome/Expert Profile

Expertise

I can offer individuals who suffer from the effects of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD, the understanding that is often sorely lacking in this area of mental health, and I can answer many of the questions that are specific to this disease. In addition, I can address many of the questions that individuals who have lived, or who are now living in an alcoholic household need answered, to help them address the emotional, physical, and spiritual toll this illness exacts, not only on the alcoholic, but those who live with the alcoholic as well. I can not address questions concerning the prescription of medications or the diagnosis of disease.

Experience in the area

I am a former Marine who served one tour of duty in Vietnam. I was diagnosed with PTSD in 1980, and have been in several in-patient programs, clinical veteran groups, and one-on-one counseling for approxmately twenty years. I was raised in an alcoholic household, and I have been a member of Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACOA) for sixteen years. Over the years, I have acquired a wealth of experience that I believe can be beneficial in helping others to examine their own issues. I am also a writer, and I have used writing as a means of examining my own life, and as a tool for working through personal issues.

Organizations

ALANON (ACOA) - A 12 Step Program (16 years). Disabled American Veterans (DAV) (20 years).

Publications

Buffalo Evening News

Education/Credentials

B.S. Computer Science - Buffalo State College 1988 Currently tutoring English students at Buffalo State College, and working on my undergrad degree in writing.

Awards and Honors

Decorated military veteran Exemplary Service award from English department of Buffalo State College.