In our first session together, here's what you can expect

During your first session, you will share what it is that moved you to want to attend counseling. You will only share information you are comfortable with sharing, and you will be able to ask whatever questions you may have. The role of the therapist is not to pick THE path in life for you, but rather to act like a light in the ceiling . . . to provide illumination over all possible paths available to you so you can figure out which path feels right for you. Throughout the entire counseling experience, you will be treated with respect, acceptance, and impartiality - so that you may enjoy the soft and comforting warmth of dignity.

The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions

Therapists do not always have to share similar experiences with clients in order to be effective; however, when they do have similar experiences - much stronger therapeutic relationships can be formed. I have my own experience with being abused when I was in 5th and 6th grade. The memory of that abuse, at first, influenced the way I looked at myself, life, and other people. My initial behaviors based on those memories were neither beneficial nor healthy. As I grew older, however, I began to realize that the abuse and the memories of it are not what define me, but rather how I choose to respond to the abuse and memories is what defines me. At the age of 31 my former wife and I divorced, and I felt the pain of loss and the fear of the "unknown". How will I survive? How do I be a good father and role-model for our daughter. How do I maintain a friendship with my daughter's mother when so many other parents do not? It is through my own life experiences and challenges that I have built a strong sense of empathy for others who have been or who may currently be experiencing abuse; for those who have or are experiencing great loss and grief; for those who are searching very hard how to find a path in life that is satisfying and rewarding not only for themselves, but for others they love.

The clients I'm best positioned to serve

From an early age, I have been passionate about working with children and families. It is this passion that drove me to become licensed as both a Mental Health Counselor - and Lawyer. And my experience in working with people in both the mental health and legal fields, as well as my own life experiences, has helped me better understand the concepts of stress, depression, anxiety, and guilt. I understand the dynamic of oppression and abuse, and the effects that come from them. I have a great appreciation for the individual who desires to rise above her or his pain of the past, and who wants to learn to use that pain to forge a more beautiful future. Life can be difficult, and yet – life can still be conquered and enjoyed.