Kelley Gunter

Kelley Gunter is an internationally acclaimed inspirational speaker, life coach, and #1 best-selling author of "You Have Such a Pretty Face," a memoir chronicling her harrowing yet redemptive journey through childhood trauma, addiction, and healing. Gunter endured repeated sexual abuse as a child and later developed multiple addictions — including a gambling addiction that led to her 2016 arrest for misusing business funds. That event marked the collapse of her life as she knew it — and the beginning of her true healing journey.

After entering treatment in Sedona, Arizona, Gunter finally disclosed her childhood abuse, recognizing the deep roots of her addictions and shame. She went on to complete a five-year probation, attend therapy and Gamblers Anonymous, and begin the process of restitution, which she continues to fulfill today. Through it all, Gunter has remained radically transparent, sharing her story on national media and in her writing, coaching, and speaking. She believes in the power of truth-telling to dismantle stigma, and she speaks candidly about how addiction often emerges from unresolved trauma.

Now sober for over seven years, Gunter draws from three decades as a licensed social worker, a master’s degree in counseling, and her own lived experience to support others in their recovery and personal transformation. She currently serves as a clinical supervisor on the national suicide hotline and is pursuing a doctoral degree in counseling and traumatology. In all that she does, Gunter champions the message that weight loss, success, or recovery alone cannot heal the shame at the core of trauma—but facing that pain can.

With a message forged in suffering, faith, and radical honesty, Gunter offers not just hope but a roadmap for others navigating darkness. She often quotes: "When the world says: 'Give up', Hope whispers: 'Try it one more time.'"