10/31/2025
Yesterday and today, I had the honor of presenting at the El Paso County Domestic Violence Summit, an event opened by the parents of Gabby Petito. Their words, strength and the remarkable work of the Gabby Petito FoundationGabby Petito Foundationder of why this work matters so deeply — prevention, awareness, and compassion can truly save lives.
This year, I presented on two topics close to my heart: my work with the military population and The Defendant Panel — now in its third year, where clients who once caused harm share their courageous stories of accountability, healing, and change. I also presented on “When Victims Fight Back: Evaluating and Treating Reactive Victims with a Trauma-Informed Approach” — exploring how sometimes their extensive history of victimization and trauma can drive reactions that are too often misunderstood, and the importance of assessing women who have been arrested for IPV from a contextual analysis lens.
Today was also meaningful because during my presentation, I spoke publicly for the first time about my late husband, SSG Christopher Shores- a combat army veteran who served in the army for over 10 years out of which, more than 5 years were served in combat zones of Iraq and Afghanistan. Despite living through the challenges of a marriage deeply impacted by mental health struggles and traumatic brain injury, it was his pain that ultimately inspired me to become a counselor. I wanted to understand — and to help others like him. His untimely death was a tragedy that shook everyone who loved him — his parents, his sisters, his friends, his only child, and me. It took me years of therapy to release the guilt I carried for not staying in that marriage and saving him. At the time of his passing we were legally married but separated. Chris deserved healing, and an opportunity to get better. He deserved an opportunity at treatment without feeling shame. Speaking about him was difficult, but it also brought meaning to the work I do every day with veterans, active-duty service members, and families impacted by trauma. His story is part of the reason I am so passionate about helping others find hope and recovery.
This year’s summit was emotional, courageous, and deeply inspiring. It reminded me that transformation is possible — even after great loss.
Lastly, today was beyond special, because it’s my honor to share with each of you, that The CARE Method Series continues to expand. Coming in June 2026, The CARE Method: Military Edition will be yours to transform the way you are treating veterans and active duty service members who have caused harm. This book is dedicated to SSG Shores—and to all the courageous men and women who have worn the uniform of our nation. To those who entered the Armed Forces carrying unseen wounds and left with even heavier burdens, yet still found the strength to say yes to healing. To every veteran, and to the families who have served beside them in spirit and sacrifice.
