Unleashed Counseling approach to wellness centers on human-animal bond

Unleashed Counseling approach to wellness centers on human-animal bond

Annalisa Smithson was a drug and alcohol counselor in an intensive outpatient treatment program when she witnessed an interaction between a client and a dog that would eventually serve as a turning point in her approach to her work as a licensed clinician. Her client, a young veteran, was having a difficult time opening up to her regarding the trauma he experienced while serving in the military. During one of his therapy sessions, he had an unex…

NGHS employee honored for work that goes beyond ‘smiles and wagging tails’

A licensed professional counselor who supports Northeast Georgia Health System employees and their families with the help of one of her therapy dogs has been named 2025 Carol H. Burrell Employee of the Year.