(he/him)
New to Grow
I am a master’s level therapist independently licensed in Ohio LPCC (S) and Tennessee LPC-MHSP (AS), and an approved supervisor in both states. I offer flexible supervision availability and have extensive experience working with individuals and couples across a range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and the unique needs of first responders and military personnel. I provide personalized treatment plans tailored to each client’s current needs and offer teletherapy with flexible scheduling options—weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly. I aim to make the therapy process as comfortable and accessible. I specialize in anxiety disorders, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. I have also worked with first responders, veterans, and correctional workers. I have training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Clinical Trauma Counseling. I want to meet you right where you are and help you get to where you want to be. I know this process can be difficult so whatever I can do to make it just a little easier is what I will do. Let's see if we can get there together.
The first session is an opportunity for us to begin building a strong, trusting foundation for our work together. While assessments and forms can provide helpful information, they rarely capture the full picture of who you are. This initial meeting is designed to go beyond paperwork and truly get to know you as a person—your story, your experiences, and what has brought you to therapy at this point in your life. During this session, we will spend time exploring your background in a way that feels comfortable and respectful of your pace. This includes discussing important aspects of your personal history, such as your upbringing, significant life experiences, and any factors that have shaped who you are today. We will also review your medical history and mental health history to better understand any past or current concerns, diagnoses, treatments, or medications that may be relevant to your care. In addition, we will talk through the dynamics of your relationships—your family, friendships, and other important connections in your life. Understanding how you relate to others, as well as the support systems you have in place, can provide valuable insight into both your challenges and your strengths. This is not about judgment, but about gaining a clearer, more complete understanding of your world. As we move through the session, I will also begin addressing any immediate questions or concerns you may have. Whether you are unsure about the therapy process, struggling with a specific issue, or simply trying to figure out where to start, this is a space where your thoughts and feelings are welcomed and taken seriously. Another important focus of the first session is identifying your goals for therapy. Together, we will explore what you hope to gain from this experience—whether that involves symptom relief, personal growth, improved relationships, or something else entirely. From there, we will begin developing a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and goals. This plan serves as a flexible roadmap, helping guide our work while allowing room for adjustment as you grow and your needs evolve. Overall, the first session is about connection, understanding, and collaboration. It sets the tone for a therapeutic relationship built on openness, respect, and shared commitment to your progress.
I approach therapy with a flexible, down-to-earth style that prioritizes creating a comfortable and welcoming environment for each client. I believe that therapy works best when clients feel at ease, so I take a more relaxed and conversational approach, allowing sessions to focus on what matters most to you. Rather than following a rigid structure, I adapt to your needs, meeting you where you are and working at a pace that feels appropriate. My goal is to ensure that every client feels heard, respected, and supported from the very beginning. I understand that starting therapy can feel intimidating, so I make a strong effort to foster a space where you can speak openly without fear of judgment. Building that sense of trust and openness is a key part of the therapeutic process. I am also deeply committed to making therapy accessible. Financial concerns or insurance limitations should not be barriers to receiving care, and I do my best to work collaboratively with clients to find solutions that make ongoing therapy possible. If you are motivated to engage in the process, I will make every effort to support you in accessing the help you need. One aspect of my approach that tends to stand out is my willingness to be direct and appropriately confrontational when it serves your growth. I believe that meaningful change often requires honest conversations, and I strive to challenge clients in a way that is both professional and compassionate. This may involve pointing out patterns, encouraging self-reflection, or addressing difficult truths that can ultimately lead to greater insight and progress. I recognize that this style may not be the right fit for everyone, and I respect that. However, for clients who are open to being challenged and are committed to their personal growth, this approach can be highly effective. My priority is to help you move forward in a meaningful way, while maintaining a supportive and respectful therapeutic relationship throughout the process.
The ideal client is someone who is engaged, motivated, and open to the therapeutic process. They come to sessions ready to participate actively—sharing thoughts, asking questions, and reflecting on their experiences both in and outside of therapy. This client is willing to do the work, understanding that meaningful change often requires effort, consistency, and a willingness to step outside of their comfort zone. They are open to working with a therapist who may use a direct or confrontational style when needed, recognizing that honest feedback can be an important part of growth. Rather than becoming defensive, they are able to consider new perspectives and use challenges as opportunities for self-exploration and improvement. Honesty is a core value for this client. They are willing to be transparent about their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors—even when it feels uncomfortable or difficult to admit. This openness allows for deeper insight, more accurate understanding, and more effective progress in therapy. Overall, the ideal client is someone who is ready to be an active participant in their own growth, open to being challenged, and committed to approaching the process with authenticity and self-awareness.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based, goal-oriented approach I use in sessions to help clients identify and change unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors. Through collaborative discussion, we explore how thoughts, emotions, and actions are interconnected, and develop practical strategies to challenge negative thinking, build coping skills, and promote healthier responses. CBT is structured, present-focused, and tailored to each individual’s needs, empowering clients to make meaningful, lasting changes both in and outside of therapy. I have been using CBT throughout my entire career in different environments
Christian Counseling
Christian counseling integrates psychological principles with biblical truth to support emotional, relational, and spiritual growth. In sessions, I incorporate faith-based perspectives alongside evidence-based practices to help clients navigate challenges, find meaning, and strengthen their relationship with God. This approach may include prayer, scripture reflection, and values-centered guidance, while respecting each client’s unique beliefs and comfort level. Christian counseling aims to foster healing, hope, and transformation by addressing the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. I have been using christian counseling throughout the entirety of my career and more as I become stronger in my faith.
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a mindfulness-based, evidence-driven approach I use to help clients develop greater psychological flexibility. In sessions, we focus on accepting difficult thoughts and emotions rather than avoiding them, while learning to stay present and connected to what truly matters. Clients are guided to clarify their values and take meaningful, committed actions aligned with those values, even in the face of discomfort. ACT emphasizes building a more open, aware, and engaged way of living, helping clients create lasting change and a deeper sense of purpose.