Carter Elliott left a career with the CIA to earn a graduate degree in Clinical Psychology, after which he directed a state counseling program dedicated to the placement of veterans with special problems.  His unique and successful approach to counseling won commendations from the International Association of Personnel in Employment Security, the National Alliance of Businessmen, the Disabled American Veterans, and the US Department of Labor.  A national award from the Veterans of Foreign Wars cited, "Distinguished Service to our Nation's Veterans in the Field of Veterans Employment."

He returned to federal service as a law enforcement officer, maintaining an active interest in substance abuse counseling and vocational guidance through speaking, writing and seminar leadership.  He retired from government service to devote full time to counseling and writing.