About Author

Laurel Brucato, Ph.D., a graduate of the University of Illinois and Kent State University, practiced clinical psychology in Ohio and then Miami, Florida for over forty years until her recent retirement. She co-founded a private practice combined with a cutting-edge stress management center, MindWorks, Int. Inc., in 1988 utilizing state of the art light/sound/binaural beat relaxation devices. In addition to working with individuals around weight loss issues, Dr. Brucato specialized in treating anxiety and mood disorders, particularly OCD, marital/ relationship problems and sexual dysfunctions. An eclectic therapist, Dr. Brucato utilized a wide range of therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Ericksonian Hypnotherapy, NLP (Neurolinguistic Programming), ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) and Family Systems. Dr. Brucato co-authored an applied Positive Psychology textbook, Essential Elements of Effectiveness (Editions 1 through 7) which has been used extensively for over twenty years at Miami Dade College, the largest institution of higher learning in the nation. Prior to that publication she co-authored a primer on stress management entitled: Stress Mastery – The Art of Coping Gracefully. Upon her retirement from clinical practice, Dr. Brucato returned to her other two passions: writing and painting. She currently resides in St. Petersburg, Florida with her spouse, two dogs and a cat.