Cynthia Weinberger of Mt. Ascutney Hospital and Health Center successfully achieved her certification as a hand therapist (CHT) in December 2010.
 
 The accomplishment represents thousands of hours of observation, and mentoring at the hospital by Elizabeth Lauziere, CHT and hand surgeon Dr. Diane Riley. It also involves clinical application, attendance at educational programs and independent study.
 
  Weinberger is part of a small group of professionals who have earned this status, with only 11 Certified Hand Therapists in Vermont and 52 in New Hampshire.