West, a Baylor University in Waco, Texas, Bachelor of Arts undergraduate, earned her Master's and Ph.D. Degrees in Guidance and Counseling from East Texas State University (now Texas A&M University in Commerce). She is licensed as a Texas Professional Counselor, National Certified Counselor, National School Certified Counselor, as well as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She also holds Board Certifications in Traumatic Stress and also Bereavement Trauma.