Lisa J. Bjornstad has a doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology and a Masters Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. She is a LMFT in Oregon as well as a State-certified Addictions Counselor. The bulk of her career has been spent working with clients in the criminal justice system, including those on parole or probation and those incarcerated in jail or prison. Prior to retiring from direct service in July 2018 she worked at Oregon State Penitentiary--Oregon's only maximum-security prison--where she was a therapist to Severely and Persistently Mentally Ill male inmates, many of whom are serving sentences of life without the possibility of parole. Dr. Bjornstad reports that her time spent with these men was the most heart-rending but by far the most joyful of her 22-year career. She is a firm believer that all people are worthy of respect, regardless of the paths they have taken in life, and that all people should be treated with respect. During her last day at the prison, one inmate told her simply, "You have changed a lot of hearts." Believing that discussions of mental health should emphasize wellness rather than illness, she has turned her attention to writing full time and hopes that her offerings continue to reach and give hope to many hearts.