Author, LaVerne A. Smith-Bell, obtained her Bachelor’s of Arts Degree in Psychology and her Master’s of Science Degree, Guidance and Counseling in Education from Chicago State University, 1979 and 1983, respectively. LaVerne and her husband, Charlie, were former guests on the Oprah Winfrey Show discussing the seven levels of marriage. "As years have come and gone, helping others avoid some of the heartaches and pains of life has become an extension of my compassion for others and their relationships.  It is not as easy as it once was to communicate in our relationships, positively and effectively, because many of our expectations, morals and values have changed with the times.  Getting it right, the first time around, has become a challenge for many of us today."  - LaVerne A. Smith-Bell