custody evaluator. She frequently conducts workshops for the public and speaks at professional conferences concerning issues related to separation and divorce.

Dr. Appell is available to train helping professionals including psychotherapists, teachers, physicians, and family law attorneys. She believes that service professionals have the power to effect positive adjustment and growth for divorcing individuals and families. However, too often, helpers fail to understand the impact of their interventions. In addition they may unwittingly set themselves up for accusations of violation of professional ethics and standards of practice. Dr. Appell offers practical advice for mental health professionals and other helpers in her book Divorce Doesn’t Have to Be That Way: A Handbook for the Helping Professional.