A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF THE EFFECTS OF PSYCHOTHERAPY ...

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Some time ago I came to the realization that if I have one overarching talent, it’s in
surrounding myself with extraordinary individuals; this continues to be the case, as is reflected in the
esteemed members of my Thesis Committee. When they weren’t directly encouraging me, they were
inspiring me with their knowledge, their enthusiasm, and their important contributions to the field of
Social Work, the academic community, and to the individuals and families to whom they are dedicated.
Each of my committee members is an outstanding representative of the profession of Social Work;
they are my role models and heroes. It has been my privilege to have been able to observe their
integrity and compassion in action. I am grateful to Dr. Smith-Osborne for her mentorship throughout
my graduate career. Words cannot express the magnitude of my gratitude to them all.
This work would not have been possible without the extraordinary efforts of the Interlibrary
Loan Team at the University of Texas at Arlington. They do so much behind the scenes, but I would
like them to know that it felt like Christmas every time I received an obscure article. Barbara Saenz and
Roshanda Marks in the School of Social Work provided invaluable assistance. Thanks go also to
Ginger Dickens in the Graduate School.
I am forever grateful to my family who supported me and encouraged me in ways they could
never imagine. I am blessed with incomparable friends, human and otherwise, who provided, and
continue to offer, inspiration and invaluable learning. I have been guided in my journey, seeking but
never seeming to find, burning bushes, but every time I look back, there are burnt bushes. And to the
thousands of horses I am privileged to have known, the great equalizers: it’s ironic that in performing
my duties in a job in which my life was at risk, my life was saved.
Lastly, and most importantly, I would like to acknowledge and extend my eternal gratitude to
my Mom, the greatest teacher of all.
April 22, 2009
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