The author is a licensed marriage and family therapy and former bereavement department manager, who specializes in grief and loss, life transitions, and counseling regarding spiritual issues. She has been a Hollywood consultant for grief-related films. She currently practices in Santa Rosa, California. In her personal time, she enjoys time with family and friends, and especially laughing with her husband--a stand-up comedian--and keeping their 7-year-old daughter amused and entertained. Towards this end, she enjoys hiking, biking, outdoor concerts, ice skating, swimming, and movies. When her daughter is in school or asleep, she steals time for writing and painting.