After graduating from West Virginia University with B. S. Degrees in Biology and English, Mrs. Hays completed her Master of Arts Degree in Counseling from West Virginia University and advanced graduate work at West Virginia University, the West Virginia College of Graduate Studies, and Virginia Commonwealth University.

             Mrs. Hays’ professional experience includes working as a school psychologist for the Southern West Virginia Regional Health Council, Director of Special Services at Bluefield State College, and serving as a faculty member at Bluefield State College, where she taught General Psychology, Human Development, the Psychology of Criminal Behavior and Correctional Counseling.

             Mrs. Hays later opened her own private practice in individual and family psychotherapy, specializing in depression and suicide.

            For the last 20 years, Mrs. Hays has owned and operated the Disability Management Group, a private rehabilitation company specializing in medical case management, catastrophic case management, and vocational rehabilitation services throughout the State of West Virginia.

             Mrs. Hays has participated in numerous community, regional, and State committees, including serving as a Board Member and Membership Chairperson for the Greater Bluefield Chamber of Commerce.

             Her professional associations include membership in the American Association for Counseling and Development, the West Virginia Association for Counseling and Development, the National Association of Rehabilitation Professionals in the Private Sector, and the West Virginia Association of Rehabilitation Professionals in the Private Sector.

             Mrs. Hays has also earned Diplomat Status in the American College of Forensic Examiners and the American Association of Psychotherapists and is a Nationally Certified Psychologist.