If you believe in divine intervention, this story will confirm your belief.

Lexington native Jennifer Miller never considered a career in counseling.

That was until she went to Iraq.

She was a heavy equipment mechanic for the Army.

While on a tour in Iraq, she was hospitalized due to blunt force trauma to the head.

She sustained injuries to her back and shoulder.

One of her battle buddies, a firefighter in her Army unit, seemed to be doing well after returning home from his tour of duty.

He later took his own life.

Jennifer didn’t see any warning signs of his intent.

Her friend’s suicide changed the direction of her life.

After Jennifer’s military service, the Dutch Fork High graduate went to Liberty University for her BS in Criminal Justice.

She went on to earn an MA in professional counseling.

She started her practice in 2012, after working at Three Rivers. About a year ago, Sarge, a lab and golden retriever mix, joined her team.

Jennifer was a staff sergeant in the Army, and Sarge came with his name.

He is a large dog with golden fur, a sweet smile and great disposition.

He is trained to open doors, give a hug or kiss and cover feet when needed to calm a client.

Sarge was chosen to work with Jennifer.

She was part of his training which lasted several weeks.

Jennifer is the only one Sarge trusts to touch his face and head.

He lives to work, and this duo loves what they do.

Both have settled into their helping roles, and are content.

She works primarily with combat vets, first responders and last responders having symptoms of post traumatic stress disorder and anxiety. Sometimes, Jennifer is the one needing Sarge, as she experiences PTSD.

Sarge assists her as a facility support dog, trained by PAALS, Inc.

His brother and sister, both born and trained in the organization, are also working dogs.

There are now 2 other counselors in her practice, Counseling Plus, located in Lexington.

She currently has a waiting list to see clients.

Her personal motto: “Avoidance is the enemy; awareness is the key.”