Our Team

Our Leadership Team

Our qualified team and board members contribute an array of expertise that allows Therapeutic Family Life to make sensible decisions that are ethical, strengthen our programs and services, and are economically sound.

Leon Smith, BS, MS, LPC, LSOTP, LMFT, LCPAA

Executive Director

Leon Joseph Smith is the founder and CEO of Therapeutic Family Life, a child-placing and adoption agency with 30 years of experience.

Virginia Smith

Executive Administrator

Virginia Smith is the co-founder and Executive Administrator of Therapeutic Family Life - an adoption agency that has been serving the foster youth of Texas for 30 years.

Melissa Rodriguez, BS, LCPAA

Director of Quality Assurance

Melissa Rodriguez holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Texas State University and has over 20 years of experience in childcare services and administration.

Thad Smith

Director of Clinical Support & Foster Parent Impact Services

Thad Smith is an experienced professional in the foster care field, having worked in it for 30 years.

Shannon Kammer, BA, LMSW

Director of Training Development

Shannon Kammer is a Licensed Master Social Worker, holding a degree from the University of Texas and a B.A. in Psychology from Southwest Texas State University.

Carlie Smith, BS, LCPAA

Director of Marketing & Social Media

Carlie received a Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design from Lamar University. She has been with Therapeutic Family Life since 1994.

Susan Rickerman, MS, BS, LCPAA

Quality Assurance Supervisor

Susan Rickerman holds a Master of Science in Criminal Justice from Lamar University and a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Tarleton State University.

William Hernandez

Controller

William Hernandez, is a native of Puerto Rico. He holds an MBA in Accounting and has over 20 years of experience in the field.

Board of Directors

Paul Ott – President, Member since July 1993

Leandra Sanchez – Secretary, Member since September 2011

Bennie Engelke – Treasurer, Member since August 2018