Ticking Noise Coming From Transmission Driving Me Crazy

I'm trying to educate myself and gather info at the moment because I've been swindled multiple times before. As I said in "Welcome Wagon", I'm starting from scratch and just bought "Auto Repair For Dummies". I'm working up to doing it myself. Also, I want to be able to direct someone else to the problem - otherwise it seems it all goes to expensive **** (excuse my language) and I'm being charged for this, that and the other. Then I dive around for a week and the problem's not been solved. So I'm here trying to do things differently.
That reply sounded harsh to me too, but he's right. You do need to have someone remove the transmission dust shield. They are known for making a clicking noise, and it is only 4 bolts to remove. They should also try to see if you have a cracked flex plate at the same time, since it's right behind the dust shield. Very easy and inexpensive to do.