client & colleague words (The sampling of client words here were spontaneously offered in notes and cards through the years some time back, and colleague words are part of recommendation letters kindly given, over time. ) from clients: "… I remember how things were before I found out about the possibility of seeing a good therapist. I was very wary at first, since I had had negative experiences with therapists in the past. But, I finally decided to give it a try and met her. Gradually, I started to realize that this person was not just a random counselor who sat down, "pretending to listen" until the hour/session was over, just in order to get paid. She was someone who really seemed to care about her patients. She would listen, not just hear, she would give great suggestions, but never impose or force her ideas on me. She made herself available 24/7 to her patients in case of crisis. I slowly began to trust … I opened up to her and slowly started to grow. .. Before I met this wonderful counselor, I had no idea of what peace felt like. I thought life was a chaotic, stressful and anxious state that I would have to endure … I wasn't able to breathe right … I wasn't able to stay in the moment, I wasn't able to assert and trust myself in most situations. I was completely lost and hopeless. This person came into my life when I was at the very end of my rope, and somehow, just by lending a non-judgmental and gentle ear, was able to help me get through numerous struggles I was going through, had gone through, and taught me wonderful suggestions to cope with future struggles. …. I am now able to view life differently and deal with my anxiety and struggles in a different and healthier way. I think it's a lifelong learning process …" ………… (Maine counseling client, 2010) "Life consistently amuses, amazes and delightfully astonishes me! I've had this card for over 20 years. I was feeling I should give it to a special Kamaaina. I have found that special person: you've earned it and more. No one person has served me better as a mentor and a peaceful friend that calms the rough waters of life … Edgar Cayce lay in an etheric trance and through his body and voice passed literally thousands of words all revealing ancient knowledge and wisdom … but you have lived his words for the past two years I have known you! "Love one another as the Great Spirit love you." Thank you, Betsy. You have confirmed the good in all of us and made such a positive difference in my life .." ………… (Hawaii counseling client, 2004) " I wanted to write, to put down into words, just how much the time, though short, we've spent together has helped me during a difficult time in my life. Just your being here, and knowing how much you care has made a world of difference. You're a very special person, please know that. "What lies behind us, and what lies before us, are small matters compared to what lies within us -- Emerson"." ………… (Maine counseling client 2008) " … I want to thank you for helping me in my time of recovery. What you did for me means so much to me. ... Addiction is so powerful. ... You have a gift of helping others and you did so much for me. I know you are passionate about what you do, again, I thank you." ………. (Maine counseling client, 2009) "I miss your encouragement and gentleness in the participation of my healing. I had no idea I could receive counseling from you on the outside. Sign me up!! ... I long to continue on this path, of healing and light, so that I may play my part in helping to heal others." ……….. (Maine jail counseling client, 2007) "… I discovered while being incarcerated that I suffered from a multitude of disorders. Such as posttraumatic stress disorder, major depression, social adjustment disorder, and social anxiety disorder. I had attempted suicide three times in a matter of three months. … Then something happened that ... made such a profound impact on my life. That experience was meeting Betsy my counselor. She made such a great first impression on me, she was very serene and calm, and we hit it off right away .. Betsy seemed to know that I was searching for something more spiritual so she gave me book by Bo Lozoff called "We're All Doing Time" and one she wrote "Free Inside" and I was off and running. The theme of the books was meditation and yoga. I, being a well rounded individual, thought that yoga was for sissies and girls. I am an ex-marine and a bodybuilder and a professional bouncer. I thought this stuff was beneath me. Well, I will tell you I could not have been more wrong …I made yoga a daily ritual and practice. I started breathing the right way! Who knew there was a wrong way? Boy I had a lot to learn .. (Now) I am up to about 250 motions a day and I feel like a kid half my age. My body is healthy and my mind is so clear… I am able to handle most confrontations by simply breathing in a correct manner. ... I no longer have outbursts of rage. My whole personality has changed for the better; most people who knew me before can't believe the change in me. … I have been guided … to seek out and to serve other people with some of the same life problems that I had. I am starting a foundation ... to give hope as well as a hand up to folks that are just being released from jail and it will work with other social agencies to help battle the … needs of the area in which we live. I am now traveling on a road of self-awareness and happiness. Betsy thank you from the deepest recesses of my heart; none of this would have happened without your help …" ………… (Maine jail counseling client and Free Inside student, 2006) "It has been a joy doing yoga .. class with you. It has given me peace of mind and knowledge about our inner self. Mahalo." "Aloha Betsy, thank you for thinking of us that society shuns away from .. Mahalo for your time." "Betsy your yoga class … is helping my health, concentration, and patience with myself. It is the best hour I spend in my week. " "Good is positive vibes that you radiate. I thank you for letting me feel my inner universe.." "Through her teaching I know I cannot heal the world, yet I can heal myself and that myself is part of the world. One corner at a time, brings many pieces together to make a whole. I would say she's wonderful to have: soothing, relaxing, comfortable, and much to share. For me it's hard to find people willing to share of themselves." …………. (Hawaiian Free Inside students, 2000 to 2004) "Just a little note of appreciation. Thank you for going so far out of your way to help us cultivate peace and health. You are a positive influence in an otherwise negative environment. I look forward to you weekly class Free Inside. It is always informative and challenging. What you offer helps to keep me motivated and in perspective. It is rare to find someone in this situation who is willing to share what they know solely for the benefit of others ... " …………… (Maine prison Free Inside student, 2006) and from colleagues: "Elizabeth and I met five years ago at the Hancock County Jail at which I am the psychiatric consultant. Immediately she impressed me with her intelligence and informed compassion. Over the years my initial impressions have been reaffirmed many times over. … She is articulate, intellectually accomplished, and ever-growing with fresh ideas and approaches. She is creative and flexible in her counseling…. she practices in commensurate fashion, which is compassionate and empathic." …………… (Fred Risser, MD, Psychiatrist, 2011) "Betsy brings a rare combination of book learning, street savvy and a pragmatic compassion to her counseling duties that when combined with her creativity and artistic talents allow her to work with inmates and psychiatrists alike without a loss of the critical element of individual credibility. Betsy is confident in her convictions but unlike some of her less gifted colleagues, her confidence nurtures rather than hinders a commitment to life long learning guided by professional curiosity and flexibility." …………… (George Russell, LCSW, CSWM, Psychotherapist and Director of Downeast AIDS Network in 2008) "I have known Elizabeth professionally for a number of years now… Throughout I have found her to be prompt, articulate, creative, empathetic, and fully engaged. Her knowledge of both traditional therapeutic models and of newer, cutting edge approaches makes her unique in the field…" …………… (Irene Greene Murphy, LCSW, LADC, Psychotherapist, president of NASW/National Association of Social Workers, Maine Chapter, 2008) "Elizabeth has contributed her many skills, expertise, and immense creativity to work on behalf of inmates .. and our community here in Maine. (She) is a person of the highest integrity and has great respect for each individual. Without reservation I highly recommend Ms. Duncombe." …………… (Judy Garvey, Director and Founder, VHJR./Volunteers for Hancock Jail Residents & The Landing Post-Release Project, 2011) "Ms. Duncombe has … provided invaluable counsel and guidance to all those who seek her help. She has the ability to talk to those individuals in a prison setting, getting them to 'open up;' and allowing her to treat them. Many inmates make requests to receive her advice and treatment, as they feel she is genuinely there to help them. Her desire to help her clients is infinite and I am convinced that her hard work has helped reduce recidivism. Betsy will be missed not only by the inmates but by my officers as well …" ………… (Captain Carl Dannenberg, Jail Administrator, Hancock County Jail, 2011) "Betsy Duncombe was hired at Ka Hale A Ke Ola .. as a Case Manager II. This is an especially challenging caseload because it includes all youth between the ages of 12 years through 17 years as well as adults. During her tenure .... Betsy quickly established rapport with adults, adolescents and staff. Her manner is one of caring and helping clients to make appropriate and wise choices … She was quick to respond to both their immediate and longer range needs. Clients felt secure knowing that she would be their strongest advocate…" …………. (Frances C. Joswick, MSW, Deputy Director Ka Hale A Ke Ola Homeless Resource Center in 2002) "Betsy was invited by me to launch her class here … Alternately called Stress Management, her program offers methods of relaxation, anxiety relief, anger management, physical rehabilitation, and the exploration of compassion for other people. These are all crucial components of our clients' recovery from their addictions. I have witnessed steady client enthusiasm for these classes, and have experienced growth in these clients of personal strength and stability which is in part due to their inner work. In fact, her program will be continued here at this agency indefinitely .." …………… (Anne Lang, MSW, CSAC, Director Chemical Dependency Program, Ka Hale A Ke Ola Homeless Resource Center in 2002)

client & colleague words

(The sampling of client words here were spontaneously offered in notes and cards through the years some time back, and colleague words are part of recommendation letters kindly given, over time. )

from clients:

"… I remember how things were before I found out about the possibility of seeing a good therapist. I was very wary at first, since I had had negative experiences with therapists in the past. But, I finally decided to give it a try and met her. Gradually, I started to realize that this person was not just a random counselor who sat down, "pretending to listen" until the hour/session was over, just in order to get paid. She was someone who really seemed to care about her patients. She would listen, not just hear, she would give great suggestions, but never impose or force her ideas on me. She made herself available 24/7 to her patients in case of crisis. I slowly began to trust … I opened up to her and slowly started to grow. .. Before I met this wonderful counselor, I had no idea of what peace felt like. I thought life was a chaotic, stressful and anxious state that I would have to endure … I wasn't able to breathe right … I wasn't able to stay in the moment, I wasn't able to assert and trust myself in most situations. I was completely lost and hopeless. This person came into my life when I was at the very end of my rope, and somehow, just by lending a non-judgmental and gentle ear, was able to help me get through numerous struggles I was going through, had gone through, and taught me wonderful suggestions to cope with future struggles. …. I am now able to view life differently and deal with my anxiety and struggles in a different and healthier way. I think it's a lifelong learning process …"

………… (Maine counseling client, 2010)

"Life consistently amuses, amazes and delightfully astonishes me! I've had this card for over 20 years. I was feeling I should give it to a special Kamaaina. I have found that special person: you've earned it and more. No one person has served me better as a mentor and a peaceful friend that calms the rough waters of life … Edgar Cayce lay in an etheric trance and through his body and voice passed literally thousands of words all revealing ancient knowledge and wisdom … but you have lived his words for the past two years I have known you! "Love one another as the Great Spirit love you." Thank you, Betsy. You have confirmed the good in all of us and made such a positive difference in my life .."

………… (Hawaii counseling client, 2004)

" I wanted to write, to put down into words, just how much the time, though short, we've spent together has helped me during a difficult time in my life. Just your being here, and knowing how much you care has made a world of difference. You're a very special person, please know that. "What lies behind us, and what lies before us, are small matters compared to what lies within us -- Emerson"."

………… (Maine counseling client 2008)

" … I want to thank you for helping me in my time of recovery. What you did for me means so much to me. ... Addiction is so powerful. ... You have a gift of helping others and you did so much for me. I know you are passionate about what you do, again, I thank you."

………. (Maine counseling client, 2009)

"I miss your encouragement and gentleness in the participation of my healing. I had no idea I could receive counseling from you on the outside. Sign me up!! ... I long to continue on this path, of healing and light, so that I may play my part in helping to heal others."

……….. (Maine jail counseling client, 2007)

"… I discovered while being incarcerated that I suffered from a multitude of disorders. Such as posttraumatic stress disorder, major depression, social adjustment disorder, and social anxiety disorder. I had attempted suicide three times in a matter of three months. … Then something happened that ... made such a profound impact on my life. That experience was meeting Betsy my counselor. She made such a great first impression on me, she was very serene and calm, and we hit it off right away .. Betsy seemed to know that I was searching for something more spiritual so she gave me book by Bo Lozoff called "We're All Doing Time" and one she wrote "Free Inside" and I was off and running. The theme of the books was meditation and yoga. I, being a well rounded individual, thought that yoga was for sissies and girls. I am an ex-marine and a bodybuilder and a professional bouncer. I thought this stuff was beneath me. Well, I will tell you I could not have been more wrong …I made yoga a daily ritual and practice. I started breathing the right way! Who knew there was a wrong way? Boy I had a lot to learn .. (Now) I am up to about 250 motions a day and I feel like a kid half my age. My body is healthy and my mind is so clear… I am able to handle most confrontations by simply breathing in a correct manner. ... I no longer have outbursts of rage. My whole personality has changed for the better; most people who knew me before can't believe the change in me. … I have been guided … to seek out and to serve other people with some of the same life problems that I had. I am starting a foundation ... to give hope as well as a hand up to folks that are just being released from jail and it will work with other social agencies to help battle the … needs of the area in which we live. I am now traveling on a road of self-awareness and happiness. Betsy thank you from the deepest recesses of my heart; none of this would have happened without your help …"

………… (Maine jail counseling client and Free Inside student, 2006)

"It has been a joy doing yoga .. class with you. It has given me peace of mind and knowledge about our inner self. Mahalo."

"Aloha Betsy, thank you for thinking of us that society shuns away from .. Mahalo for your time."

"Betsy your yoga class … is helping my health, concentration, and patience with myself. It is the best hour I spend in my week. "

"Good is positive vibes that you radiate. I thank you for letting me feel my inner universe.."

"Through her teaching I know I cannot heal the world, yet I can heal myself and that myself is part of the world. One corner at a time, brings many pieces together to make a whole. I would say she's wonderful to have: soothing, relaxing, comfortable, and much to share. For me it's hard to find people willing to share of themselves."

…………. (Hawaiian Free Inside students, 2000 to 2004)

"Just a little note of appreciation. Thank you for going so far out of your way to help us cultivate peace and health. You are a positive influence in an otherwise negative environment. I look forward to you weekly class Free Inside. It is always informative and challenging. What you offer helps to keep me motivated and in perspective. It is rare to find someone in this situation who is willing to share what they know solely for the benefit of others ... "

…………… (Maine prison Free Inside student, 2006)

and from colleagues:

"Elizabeth and I met five years ago at the Hancock County Jail at which I am the psychiatric consultant. Immediately she impressed me with her intelligence and informed compassion. Over the years my initial impressions have been reaffirmed many times over. … She is articulate, intellectually accomplished, and ever-growing with fresh ideas and approaches. She is creative and flexible in her counseling…. she practices in commensurate fashion, which is compassionate and empathic."

…………… (Fred Risser, MD, Psychiatrist, 2011)

"Betsy brings a rare combination of book learning, street savvy and a pragmatic compassion to her counseling duties that when combined with her creativity and artistic talents allow her to work with inmates and psychiatrists alike without a loss of the critical element of individual credibility. Betsy is confident in her convictions but unlike some of her less gifted colleagues, her confidence nurtures rather than hinders a commitment to life long learning guided by professional curiosity and flexibility."

…………… (George Russell, LCSW, CSWM, Psychotherapist and Director of Downeast AIDS Network in 2008)

"I have known Elizabeth professionally for a number of years now… Throughout I have found her to be prompt, articulate, creative, empathetic, and fully engaged. Her knowledge of both traditional therapeutic models and of newer, cutting edge approaches makes her unique in the field…"

…………… (Irene Greene Murphy, LCSW, LADC, Psychotherapist, president of NASW/National Association of Social Workers, Maine Chapter, 2008)

"Elizabeth has contributed her many skills, expertise, and immense creativity to work on behalf of inmates .. and our community here in Maine. (She) is a person of the highest integrity and has great respect for each individual. Without reservation I highly recommend Ms. Duncombe."

…………… (Judy Garvey, Director and Founder, VHJR./Volunteers for Hancock Jail Residents & The Landing Post-Release Project, 2011)

"Ms. Duncombe has … provided invaluable counsel and guidance to all those who seek her help. She has the ability to talk to those individuals in a prison setting, getting them to 'open up;' and allowing her to treat them. Many inmates make requests to receive her advice and treatment, as they feel she is genuinely there to help them. Her desire to help her clients is infinite and I am convinced that her hard work has helped reduce recidivism. Betsy will be missed not only by the inmates but by my officers as well …"

………… (Captain Carl Dannenberg, Jail Administrator, Hancock County Jail, 2011)

"Betsy Duncombe was hired at Ka Hale A Ke Ola .. as a Case Manager II. This is an especially challenging caseload because it includes all youth between the ages of 12 years through 17 years as well as adults. During her tenure .... Betsy quickly established rapport with adults, adolescents and staff. Her manner is one of caring and helping clients to make appropriate and wise choices … She was quick to respond to both their immediate and longer range needs. Clients felt secure knowing that she would be their strongest advocate…"

…………. (Frances C. Joswick, MSW, Deputy Director Ka Hale A Ke Ola Homeless Resource Center in 2002)

"Betsy was invited by me to launch her class here … Alternately called Stress Management, her program offers methods of relaxation, anxiety relief, anger management, physical rehabilitation, and the exploration of compassion for other people. These are all crucial components of our clients' recovery from their addictions. I have witnessed steady client enthusiasm for these classes, and have experienced growth in these clients of personal strength and stability which is in part due to their inner work. In fact, her program will be continued here at this agency indefinitely .."

…………… (Anne Lang, MSW, CSAC, Director Chemical Dependency Program, Ka Hale A Ke Ola Homeless Resource Center in 2002)