CAREER SUMMARYProvides substance abuse and mental health treatment services as a Licensed Professional Counselor formerly in Texas and currently in Tennessee including: 6 years inpatient experience; IOP therapist and group leader for substance abuse recovery; Care Manager providing telephonic support for EAP, outpatient, and inpatient pre-certifications for MHN members; and as a primary therapist in men’s residential substance abuse treatment. The societal cost of addiction is estimated to be $300 billion per year and is one of the most severe health concerns facing America today. As an addictions counselor, I often hear from clients: "I know what to do to keep sober, but in that moment, I make the wrong choice". Neuroscience research has shown that addict/alcoholics have deficits in decision making often making impulsive and risky decisions. In my experience with drug and alcohol treatment, decision making and problem solving skills are not taught. Curriculum development underway to incorporate Problem Solving Therapy into a substance abuse treatment program. The belief is that by teaching these skills, the recovering alcoholic or addict will be able to make more reflective and positive decisions therefore the occurrence of relapse will be lowered in these study members benefiting the recovering person, their families, and society.