Cherie holds a Master’s Degree in Social Work and has over 17 years of experience in the social work profession.   A Licensed Clinical Social Worker, her professional background has focused on promoting the emotional and psychological wellness of children and families.  Her work in this area led her to such roles as Child and Family Therapist, Executive Director for the Exchange Child Abuse Prevention Center and, most recently, six years as Sr. Trainer and Training Coordinator at the NC State University – Family Centered Meetings Project.   A wife and adoring mother of her two children ages 4 and 2, she lives in NC where she is most typically found focusing her efforts upon enriching her community there.  However, she also loves to share this learning wherever it leads her, and she facilitates trainings on special topics nationally.  Her children are her inspiration and she now works independently as a Master Facilitator and Family Consultant, specializing in workshops about navigating life transitions, emotional health, child and family issues and development, strengths-based education and social skills building, and the art of facilitation.  She also provides individualized support, coaching and nurturing connection meetings around her workshop topics.

Currently, Cherie also enjoys her role as a Child and Family Therapist with New Leaf Behavioral Health Services.  There, she utilizes a person/family-centered approach to work together with her clients in navigating various life situations and transitions.  She is especially dedicated to the nurturing of infant mental health, parental mental health, pre and post natal adjustment, and healthy attachments between parents and children.

Areas of Professional Expertise




Hello my fellow partners in learning!  How glad I am that you are here.  Smiling Spirit Workshops was born out of my sincere passion for learning, truth, and knowledge, and inspired by my own two children.  Put that together with my love of teaching, background in social work, and sincere intent to help
Cherie has many loves, and you will also find her creating extraordinary commemorative jewelry pieces, personally designed to celebrate ANY occasion in your life.  Come visit her at  Smiling Spirit Creations to see her in action with another passion put to work in helping others.
navigate all of our life and work situations with balance, perspective, and peace and, well, here we are!  It is my hope that together we will share the most OUTSTANDING learning experiences you've ever encountered.  Please come and join me as we take this walk together - I can't wait to see you! Contact me anytime and I will personally respond within a few business days. Be well, be learning, and may your spirit be smiling. ~~ Cherie
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