There seems to some debate on my history. I believe I am qualified to answer on this topic...if nothing else.
I started training to be a psychologist, but never finished or got a degree. I was too empathic and got really depressed when I could not help people. Since then I keep up to date on current thinking in the psych field, only because it interests me. I also donated my time as a big-brother, and helped out with a local program for ED children when I was between the ages of 18-26. I did about 1.5 years of pure research into gambling addiction, before publishing my book, and co-authored the two chapters on psychology with a local therapist.
I was a really good at math in high-school, but at the time did not think I would ever use it, so I did not take any of the advanced classes. Only after passing on my music scholarship to Juilliard to take care of Mom, did I realize realize I'd need a bit more math to make it in gambling. When I need to do something, I look up the equations or figure them out on my own. Most of the stuff in my book was original, though I'm told some French guy thought of it first.
I do not consider myself to be a good mathematician. I am average at best and lacking in formal education.
Please do not overstate my skills. I am what I am and that's what I am.
The Entertainer - Billy Joel
I am the entertainer,
And I've had to pay my price.
The things I did not know at first,
I learned by doin' twice.
Ah, but still they come to haunt me,
Still they want their say.
So I've learned to dance
With a hand in my pants,
And they rub my neck,
And I write 'em a check,
And they go their merry way.