Expert Witnesses and Vocational Consultants You Can Count On
Who We Are
We are moms, spouses, sisters, mentors, dog mama’s, yoga enthusiasts, runners, and foodies. In addition we are detail oriented, hard working professionals who never miss an opportunity to expand our skill set.
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Maria Vargas, MS, CRC, CLCP
Charlotte, North Carolina
Growing up as the youngest of 3 children, I had a lot of opportunities to study human nature and learn from my siblings. It was a logical choice to study psychology in college. Working with injured people in vocational rehabilitation is a great fit for my concern about people and desire to help them with practical planning for their lives. This was a natural extension into life care planning, which I find incredibly rewarding and fascinating due to the complex medical issues involved.
I always say I am not a competitive person, but at heart, I love to challenge myself every day. It’s not so much directed at competing with other people, but more of a competition with myself to do the best I can do and learn new things all of the time. I grow restless without challenges so being a business owner, mentor, and expert all at the same time offers continual challenges.
My greatest joy in work is that VVC is a warm, supportive collaborative work environment. I have been able to create the ideal environment that I always longed for in a workplace and work alongside the most impressive group of professionals. While we all work independently, we are incredibly generous in sharing information, time, and resources with each other. This makes all of us better and allows us all to grow professionally.
In our free time, we enjoy our cabin at Beech Mountain, and my husband and I stay busy traveling with our 3 teenage daughters.
Special Interest Areas:
- Life Care Planning
- Collaborative Divorce
Education:
- Master of Science Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling, UNC‑Chapel Hill - 1991
- Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology, UNC‑Chapel Hill - 1989
Certifications:
- Certified Rehabilitation Counselor - Since 1991
- Social Security Vocational Expert - Since 2009
- Certified Life Care Planner - Since 2011
Memberships:
- International Association of Rehabilitation Providers in the Private Sector
- American Board of Vocational Experts
- IACP- International Academy of Collaborative Professionals
Advanced Training:
- IACP Introductory Interdisciplinary Collaborative Training 2020
Maria Vargas MS, CRC, CLCP
Charlotte, North Carolina
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Ashley Harrelson Johnson, MS, CRC, CLCP
Charlotte, North Carolina
Growing up with a birth injury limited my ability to perform physical activities and shaped who I am today. I enjoyed science and math and planned to pursue a career in medicine. I have always enjoyed talking with people and figuring out what makes them tick. When I found rehabilitation counseling, it was a perfect combination of those interests. I also have a personal connection to helping others with disabilities.
One really rewarding experience was when I worked with a railroad employee in his early 30s with a below‑the‑knee amputation. I helped him to return to school at UNC‑Charlotte, obtain credit for his prior college coursework, select classes, and obtain accommodations. He graduated in 1 ½ years with a degree in Human Resources.
Neither of my parents graduated from college; my dad attended college for about a year. He is definitely a self‑made man, having come from a working‑class family and starting out with no degree to owning his own business and being incredibly successful. He has always pushed me to work harder than other people and to strive to be the best that I can be.
I pursued training to become a certified life care planner because I saw a need for rehab professionals that could identify future needs and the costs associated with those needs. I worked with so many clients that had catastrophic injuries or chronic illnesses that needed to understand how much their treatment and associated needs would cost going forward. I like that I can provide a comprehensive plan for them and I find my job incredibly rewarding.
The one main theme in my life is my desire to do a good job. I want to be the best that I can be for my family, friends, and professionally. I am constantly challenging myself to learn more, to do more, and to be my personal best.
I enjoy spending time with my husband and 3 children. We are always on the go! It may be traveling on vacation or traveling to a dance competition. I love the beach, dancing, crafting, and karaoke.
Special Interest Areas:
- Life Care Planning
- Special Needs Trusts
- Collaborative Divorce
Education:
- Master of Science Degree Rehabilitation Psychology and Counseling, UNC‑Chapel Hill - 2003
- Bachelor of Science Degree Psychology, UNC‑Chapel Hill - 2001
Certifications:
- Certified Rehabilitation Counselor - Since 2003
- Qualified Rehabilitation Professional, NC Industrial Commission - Since 2003
- Social Security Vocational Expert - Since 2011
- Certified Life Care Planner, CLCP - Since 2014
Memberships:
- International Association of Rehabilitation Professionals
- North Carolina Association of Rehabilitation Professionals
- IACP- International Academy of Collaborative Professionals
Memberships:
- International Association of Rehabilitation Professionals
- North Carolina Association of Rehabilitation Professionals
Advanced Training:
Ashley Harrelson Johnson MS, CRC, CLCP
Charlotte, North Carolina
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Beth Crain, MS, CRC
Tallahassee, Florida
I started out as a Music Therapy major and REALLY wanted to do this; however, my instruments were the bassoon, French horn, and trumpet. These don’t lend themselves very well to therapy settings. The main instrument that musical therapists use is a guitar, and I was not used to playing strings, so it was very difficult to start learning in college. I found my way to Rehabilitation Counseling and this was the best decision I made. Up until that point, I did not even know such a profession existed. I am the first in my family to go to college and had very little guidance along the way.
My most rewarding work experience was with a client from the Division of Blind Services. One of the clients was struggling with classes. I just continued meeting with her and encouraging her while monitoring her services. For me, I was just doing my job. Fast forward 8 years, when I was participating in training for my job. This former client was now working at the facility and was the supervisor. She told the group how if it wasn't for me, she would have quit school and probably still be living off of social security.
Law has always fascinated me and as a child; I thought I wanted to be a lawyer. I completed the Forensic Vocational Rehabilitation program at the University of Florida in 2014 and shortly thereafter began working for Vargas Vocational Consulting.
In my off time, I spend as much time as possible with my husband, son, and daughter. When we are not traveling for dance competitions or sporting events, we like to watch college football and movies, go kayaking and fishing, attend community festivals, and LOVE vacationing.
Special Interest Areas:
- Experience with Blindness for 14 Years
Education:
- Graduate Certificate, Forensic Vocational Rehabilitation, University of Florida - 2014
- Master of Education Degree, Rehabilitation Counseling, Florida State University - 2001
- Bachelor of Science Degree, Rehabilitation Services, Florida State University - 1999
Certifications:
- Social Security Vocational Expert (SSVE) - 2016 to Present
- Certified Rehabilitation Counselor - 2001 to Present
Beth Crain MS, CRC
Tallahassee, Florida
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Jessica Conard, MRC, CRC, CLCP
Raleigh, North Carolina
As I once considered law school, expert witness works marries my interest in the legal profession with my experience and training in vocational rehabilitation. I enjoy the challenge of defending my opinions in court, be it in divorce, worker's compensation, or personal injury matters.
In 2018, I became certified as a Life Care Planner to assist individuals with chronic, and often complex, conditions meet their rehabilitation potential while maintaining the quality of life. While producing comprehensive plans that provide all parties with a realistic view of the injured claimant's future medical and nonmedical needs can be challenging, it is one of the most rewarding aspects of my professional work.
I strongly identify with the Veteran population and find developing vocational assessments for veterans seeking VA benefits extremely rewarding. I was commissioned into the United States Army and briefly served as a medical service officer. I have also "served" as an active duty military spouse for a decade.
I enjoy traveling, good coffee, and great books. I reside in Apex, NC with my husband, three daughters, and myriad of pets.
Special Interest Areas:
- TBI Specialist
- Life Care Planning
- Collaborative Divorce
Education:
- Masters of Rehabilitation Counseling, UK‑Lexington - 2013
- Graduate Certificate in Job Development and Job Placement, George Washington University - 2012
- Bachelors of Arts in Psychology, American University - 2009
Certifications:
- Certified Life Care Planner - 2018 to Present
- Social Security Vocational Expert (SSVE) - 2016 to Present
- Certified Rehabilitation Counselor - 2013 to Present
Memberships:
- International Association of Rehabilitation Professionals
- IACP- International Academy of Collaborative Professionals
Advanced Training:
- IACP Introductory Interdisciplinary Collaborative Training scheduled for 2021
Jessica Conard MRC, CRC, CLCP
Raleigh, North Carolina
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Katy Mac Dillon, M.Ed., CRC
Birmingham, Alabama
My grandfather sustained a spinal cord injury late in his life that resulted in quadriplegia. I resonated with wanting him to have the most full and complete life possible, despite his disabilities. As a result of my personal experience, I found vocational rehabilitation both compelling, and necessary for all people. I find traumatic brain injury and spinal cord injury cases both challenging and compelling.
As a child of divorced parents, I see so much value in using a vocational expert to explain loss of earning capacity, as well as where one individual is in terms of finding and sustaining competitive work.
I am pursuing my CLCP because it is vital to look at the whole person when considering a person's disability in terms of their ability to work and earning capacity.
I love meeting new people and relating to them.
Education:
- Master of Education Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling, Auburn University - 2012
- Bachelor of Science Degree in Rehabilitation Services, Auburn University - 2011
Certifications:
- Certified Life Care Planner - In Progress
- Social Security Vocational Expert (SSVE) - 2013 to Present
- Certified Rehabilitation Counselor - 2012 to Present
Memberships:
- American Board of Vocational Experts
- International Association of Rehabilitation Professionals in the Private Sector
- National Council on Rehabilitation Education
- IACP- International Academy of Collaborative Professionals
Advanced Training:
IACP Introductory Interdisciplinary Collaborative Training scheduled for 2021
Special Interest:
- Collaborative Divorce
Katy Mac Dillon M.Ed., CRC
Birmingham, Alabama
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Laura Pizzurro, M.Ed, CRC, LMHC
Tampa Bay, Florida
Growing up with 2 disabled cousins had a profound influence on my vocational choice. I decided I wanted to help advocate for those with disabilities. We don’t take things for granted, even the simplest of things that we are able to do. I do have a special place in my heart for people who are blind or visually impaired since that’s the population I started with. I really enjoyed helping transition aged students to find their educational path and gain degrees, I always felt at that age it was a lot of stress to make such a big decision
I have been through a divorce and can relate to the emotional toll that it takes on an individual and both family units. But for me and I know for many, divorce can also be a great thing in many ways!
I am 100% Sicilian and 1st generation American. It profoundly influenced me as I have a drive to do more and be better, for all of the sacrifices that my parents and grandparents made to come here and give me the opportunity to do so. I'm always trying to better myself and set new goals for myself. My spirituality and meditation guide me and I am always working on finding a good balance with all things in life.
I do have my LMHC (Licensed Mental Health Counselor). I love learning about the psychology behind how people think and behave and what has influenced them to be the way they are. I pursued it to be better rounded and varied since rehabilitation and mental health frequently find themselves overlapping.
My hobbies include working out, outdoor activities like paddle boarding, roller blading and hiking, traveling with my husband, and spending time with our families.
Special Interest Areas:
- Spinal cord injury and stroke specialist including memory therapy
- Blindness placement and accommodations
- Transition age students and advocacy
- Disability grant consultant
- Collaborative Divorce
Education:
- Masters in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling, Florida Atlantic University - 2014
- Bachelors of Science and Communication Disorders, University of Central Florida - 2010
Certifications:
- Licensed Mental Health Counselor - 2019 to Present
- Social Security Vocational Expert (SSVE) - 2018 to Present
- Certified Rehabilitation Counselor - 2014 to Present
Memberships:
- National Rehabilitation Association
- IACP- International Academy of Collaborative Professionals
Advanced Training:
- IACP Introductory Interdisciplinary Collaborative Training scheduled for 2021
Laura Pizzurro M. Ed, CRC, LMHC
Tampa Bay, Florida
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Luisa Suess, MA
Greater Charlotte, North Carolina
I grew up in the Dominican Republic. “As a Latina, I do understand the barriers of the cultural background as it’s different from our own. When working with Latina/o clients, it is helpful to explain what my role is to help his/her attorney as sometimes the process is very overwhelming and they might not be willing to open up about their limitations. As someone whose background is Latina, my upbringing has prepared me to better serve people who share my cultural background.”
I have been working with people with disabilities for about 12 years. I worked with individuals with intellectual disabilities helping them get gainful employment in the community. I helped them maintain their jobs by providing intensive case management to help them keep services such as job coaches. As a vocational counselor, I have helped people with disabilities that were unable to do their previous occupation, prior to an accident or illness, obtain vocational training to help them return to work at a different occupation.
I need to be intellectually challenged in order to be engage in a conversation or in any work or social activity. I do not thrive with injustices. I live to help others.
My hobbies are exercising, cooking healthy meals, traveling, shopping, spending time with my family.
Special Interest Areas:
- Bilingual “in Spanish”
- Collaborative Divorce
Education:
- Master of Arts Degree Forensic Psychology, Argosy University D.C - 2012
- Bachelor of Arts Degree Psychology, UNIBE Dominican Republic - 2006
Certifications:
- Qualified Rehabilitation Professional (QRP) - 2020
- Social Security Vocational Expert (SSVE) - 2018 to Present
Advanced Training:
- IACP Introductory Interdisciplinary Collaborative Training scheduled for 2021
Luisa Suess MA
Greater Charlotte, North Carolina
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Mia Heikkila, EdD, MS, CRC, CEAS
Florida Gold Coast
As an immigrant from Finland, I was raised to become an independent and creative thinker, which is a typical approach to bringing up and educating Finnish children. One of the most valuable lessons of my upbringing is that a difference of opinion can generate well‑rounded, collaborative, and civilized solutions to problems.
My desire has always been to engage in a career that is reality‑based, action‑oriented, and educational and that allows me to assist others who aspire to imagine a new future after unforeseen, and oftentimes unfortunate, circumstances. I found such a career in rehabilitation counseling. I believe that innovative thinking, optimism, and active engagement are the keys to accomplishing goals during a significant shift in life, while bearing in mind the need for practical and sensible solutions. Though our feet must be firmly planted on the ground, rehabilitation counseling requires thinking outside of the box.
I am also trained as a Certified Ergonomics Assessment Specialist, which enables me to identify valuable, often overlooked, ergonomic challenges that are either existing or likely risk factors to the workplace, let alone financial burdens, for the worker and the organization.
As a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, my work involves vocational rehabilitation that applies to both people with and without disabilities. At times, people without disabilities can also face the need to reorient into the work world, for example after a divorce. I recognize that navigating through a divorce is often difficult for all involved, even in the best case scenario. My first marriage and eventual divorce was genuinely amicable, and if it existed at the time, I am confident that we would have chosen to participate in a collaborative divorce. As an immigrant myself, I can also identify with those who are navigating a sometimes tumultuous process without having a strong support system to lean on, and I recognize that cultural preferences and language may lend additional complexities to the process.
In my free time, I love anything to do with food and cooking because it brings people together for enjoyment and laughter. Every type of food and recipe has a fascinating back‑story that also fits somewhere in a rehabilitation narrative – something that I believe is broadly overlooked. I also enjoy travel and learning of all types of cultures, which takes me back to food.
Special Interest Areas:
- Ergonomics Assessment
- Corporate Disability - Inclusion Practices
- Workplace Incivility toward Individuals with Disabilities
- Collaborative Divorce
Education:
- Doctorate of Education Degree in Adult Education and Human Resource Development, FIU - 2019
- Minor in Rehabilitation Counseling, FIU - 2019
- Master of Science Degree in Counseling, NSU - 2010
- Bachelor of Science Degree in Mass Communications, TWU - 1995
Certifications:
- Certified Ergonomics Assessment Specialist (CEAS) - 2016
- Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) - 2015
Advanced Training:
- IACP Introductory Interdisciplinary Collaborative Training scheduled for 2021
Membership:
- IACP- International Academy of Collaborative Professionals
Mia Heikkila EdD, MS, CRC, CEAS
Florida Gold Coast
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Rachel McDaniel, MA, CRC
Florence, Alabama
I have been married for 21 years to my husband, Jeremy. He has worked over 20 years as a machinist in a nuclear plant. I often turn to him with questions pertaining to skilled vocational trade work areas. My father owned his own telecommunications business, while my mother was a stay at home mother trying to manage four daughters. My husband and I both come from large families with wonderful parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles.
Voc rehab was a natural transition for me from my role as a Social Worker. I was given the opportunity to spend time working with a population of women in a sober living community. Seeing the struggles these women endured on a daily basis and the faith they had to overcome was inspiring. They were truly thankful to have a second chance at life, school and work.
I volunteer with the homeless population in my area through the Room at the Inn program. We provide meals and shelter multiple times a month. Being a part of this program helps me to interact with individuals looking for employment. They may have several barriers including disabilities which impede the employment process. I enjoy answering questions and offering suggestions.
My free time is spent with my family and friends. I have two very active daughters who are involved in cheerleading, softball and basketball. We also enjoy time with friends and family at the lake. We love boating, wakeboarding, fishing and sitting by the fire. I also enjoy watching my husband and daughters play a round of golf. I am the official golf cart driver and scorekeeper.
Education:
- M.A. Rehabilitation Counseling, University of Alabama - 2015
- Bachelor of Social Work, University of North Alabama - 2002
Certifications:
- Certified Rehabilitation Counselor - 2015 to Present
Memberships:
- International Association of Rehabilitation Providers in the Private Sector
- IACP- International Academy of Collaborative Professionals
Advanced Training:
- IACP Introductory Interdisciplinary Collaborative Training scheduled for 2021
Special Interest:
- Collaborative Divorce
Rachel McDaniel MA, CRC
Florence, Alabama
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Shannon Hollander, MRC, CRC
Louisville Metro and Lexington, Kentucky
As someone who has experienced divorce in childhood and as an adult, I understand the difficulties families face and how these life‑changing events can impact each person, including one's mental health. It wasn't unusual for my mother to work three jobs at one time while raising three children. Somehow, we never went without, and she was always present for sports and activities. Witnessing her strength, resilience, and perseverance is what influenced who I am today and my passion for helping others who have been in disadvantageous positions.
My career in vocational rehabilitation happened by chance, but I quickly learned that I had a passion for helping others achieve their employment goals. While working as a vocational rehabilitation specialist, my manager recommended I pursue a graduate degree in rehabilitation counseling. I realized I had the ability to easily build rapport with clients which enabled me to help them understand their own potential and assist with training, employment, and independent living skills.
I have always enjoyed learning about mental health conditions which is why I completed my undergraduate work in psychology. I find the complexities of these conditions and the way they impact each client differently fascinating and challenging. I enjoy helping others understand how their mental health conditions impact how they function at home, in school, or at work.
I decided to pursue advanced training in life care planning because I am interested in applying my skills in rehabilitation to other areas. Instead of being focused solely on employment, I will have the opportunity to create a plan that will allow those with chronic health conditions to live a fulfilled life.
Special Interest Areas:
- Experience with blindness and transition services
Education:
- Master of Rehabilitation Counseling, University of Kentucky - 2010
- Bachelor of Arts, Psychology, Western Kentucky University - 2005
Certifications:
- Certified Rehabilitation Counselor - 2010 to 2015, 2017 to Present
- Social Security Vocational Expert (SSVE) - 2016 to Present
- Certified Life Care Planner - Anticipated Completion Date, Spring 2021
Shannon Hollander MRC, CRC
Louisville Metro and Lexington, Kentucky
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Stacy Fisher, MA, CRC
Tampa Bay Area, Florida
I am an only child who comes from a multiracial family. My mom is Filipino and came to the US in her early 20s. My parents both worked very hard and they showed me to work hard and do my best at everything I do. With my mom's family all being in the Philippines, I did not grow up with much extended family and have embraced close friends as family. I spent a lot of time in hospitals growing up with my mom working in health care and my dad having various health conditions. I saw how important helping others is and I have embraced that.
I have always had a desire to help people and have been intrigued by what motivates people. In pursuing my degree focused on mental health counseling, I was presented with the opportunity to learn about the vocational rehabilitation area. I felt it was a good use of my skills and was a great way for me to assist people facing adversity.
My husband is a veteran, and I have been the military spouse, so I identify with the military population. It has offered us the opportunity to travel and most recently, we lived in Alaska. Growing up, my father had numerous health issues and had to make a few career transitions due to that, and that has shaped me as well. My brother‑in‑law is also on the autism spectrum, and has shown me the impact a great work ethic can have.
I am motivated by doing what is best. I feel I have strong morals and am also always wanting to help others around me.
I spend my free time with my family. Having 2 young children, chasing them around and watching them embrace the world is how I spend most of my time. Otherwise, I enjoy catching up with friends, seeing and interpreting movies, and enjoying good food.
Education:
- Master of Arts Degree Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling, University of South Florida - 2008
- Bachelor of Science Degree Psychology, University of Miami - 2006
Certifications:
- Social Security Vocational Expert (SSVE) - 2017 to Present
- Certified Rehabilitation Counselor - 2008 to Present
Advanced Training:
- IACP Introductory Interdisciplinary Collaborative Training scheduled for 2021
Membership:
- IACP- International Academy of Collaborative Professionals
Special Interest:
- Collaborative Divorce
Stacy Fisher MA, CRC
Tampa Bay Area, Florida