(he/him)
New to Grow
I specialize in working with diverse populations, including veterans and their families, couples, and victims of trauma. While on active duty, I served the veteran population for 20 years as a staff chaplain and chaplain supervisor. I served as a clinical chaplain for 9 years at the Dept. of VA in Mental Health and Substance Abuse Recovery and Rehabilitation. I'm also a licensed master social worker and a certified addictions counselor with the National Certification Commission for Addiction Professionals. I am a firm believer in a person-centered, whole-health approach to healthcare and total well-being. If you ever need assistance for what could be described as symptoms of depression or anxiety, this may require a more comprehensive evaluation. If you experience poor appetite, lack of interest in normal activities, poor concentration, and frequent fatigue, additional information could be required in order to establish a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Seeking help at times can be very difficult. Some people believe seeking help for personal problems is a sign of weakness. In fact, the opposite is true; it's actually a sign of strength! I look forward to working with you and assisting you in getting your life back on track. I have committed nearly 46 years of my life to helping others. I'm very grateful!
During our initial session, we will do introductions and allow you the opportunity to share the current issue(s) that have brought you in seeking therapy at this time in your life. I'll share my professional background and what you can expect from me as your therapist as well as a brief introduction to therapy.
I have over 46 years of experience helping adults, adolescents, couples, and families in crisis. I'm currently licensed in MI. In addition, I am certified in addictions and a board-certified chaplain. I am a strong advocate of the total healthcare model. I specialize in the use of acceptance commitment therapy and solution-focused brief therapy models. I frequently work with clients who are struggling with depression and trauma related to problematic relationships. During our initial sessions, we will explore current and past issues and work together to create a plan for dealing with them to get your life back on track. Most of my clients have seen a gradual improvement of symptoms within the first few weeks and continued improvement thereafter.
I frequently work with clients who are struggling with anxiety and depression, addictions, and trauma related to problematic relationships. During our initial sessions, we will explore current and past issues and work together to create a plan for dealing with them to get your life back on track. Most of my clients have seen a gradual improvement of symptoms within the first few weeks and continued improvement thereafter. I am a strong believer in the team approach to therapeutic intervention. Building relationships through the establishment of mutual trust and understanding are the keys to success in therapy. I look forward to facilitating these attributes along the therapeutic journey.
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
I use ACT primarily to assist clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, and other addictions. Committing to actions that are values-driven, with a focus on realistic and meaningful life goals.
Solution Focused Brief Treatment
I have used Solution-Focused Brief Therapy with individuals and couples who prefer a goal-oriented approach to change. This therapeutic approach is especially useful for clients seeking support for less crisis-related issues. Therapy focuses more on seeking solutions rather than emphasizing problems.
Couples Counseling
When faulty communication patterns and emotional disconnection become the central theme in marital discord, some will seek couples counseling for these issues before giving up on their marriage. I use a mindfulness-based present-moment approach to improve communication skills and rebuilding emotional connection.
Faith based therapy
As a board-certified chaplain with the National Association of Veteran Affairs Chaplains, I've used a "whole person" therapeutic approach with individuals and couples who are seeking a connection or reconnection with the higher power in their lives.