I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 25 years of professional practice. My career spans more than two decades of work in clinical settings, academia, and the private sector, including 10 years of Industrial and Organizational (I/O) experience. This breadth of experience allows me to bring a unique perspective to my work at Family Counseling Associates.

In addition to my clinical background, I have been teaching as a professor in graduate counseling programs for over 13 years. At Family Counseling Associates, I utilize this academic and professional expertise as a professional supervisor for Residents and Interns in our training program, fostering the development of the next generation of practitioners. 

Professional Background & Education 

My professional journey includes extensive experience in a variety of settings, such as church counseling, Christian and secular university counseling centers, outpatient mental health clinics, and juvenile correctional facilities. I also have significant experience in career development, career re-development and reintegration after a life change, and executive coaching. 

• Ph.D. in Psychology: Specialties in Industrial and Organizational Psychology, Psychological Assessment, and Counseling. 

• M.A. in Counseling. 

• B.A. in Psychology. 

My approach to working with individuals is multifaceted, aimed at helping them achieve their desired level of functioning across all aspects of life. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is the most vital tool in the counseling context, providing the foundation for awareness and change. 

My foundational philosophy integrates several key frameworks: 

• Existentialist & Psychodynamic Philosophy: Focusing on purpose and meaning, individual uniqueness, personal responsibility, and attachment-based work. 

• Evidence-Based Interventions: Drawing upon solution-focused and cognitive behavioral (CBT) techniques as well as EMDR. 

• Individualized Frameworks: Tailoring interventions to the unique goals, values, and situation of each person. 

By establishing an authentic relationship, I strive to help individuals discover their own sense of freedom and explore new possibilities through a theory-grounded, individualized approach.