I recently earned a Master of Arts (MA) degree from Eastern Mennonite University’s Mental Health Counseling Program after completing my clinical internship at Aram Counseling & Wellness Center. I am excited to continue being a part of Aram’s talented and eclectic team as a resident in counseling. Previously, I completed a Master of Science (MS) degree in English from Radford University, where I completed a two-year teaching fellowship and served as an English professor for nearly two decades, teaching everything from World Literature to Creative Writing. This experience has shaped my identity as a mental health counselor, which centers on creating a client-centered relationship that is supportive, engaged, and collaborative. As a former English teacher, I am always on the lookout for creative wisdom from artists, poets, and healers throughout the ages to guide me in my personal journey and offer to my clients as they embark on theirs.

I work with individuals, couples, and groups using an integrated approach based on person-centered, Internal Family Systems, attachment theory, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and mindfulness-based psychotherapy. I believe that the deepest human need is to be known and loved. Often, adverse life experiences cause fear, anger, and confusion, which keep us from the very thing that will heal us: true connection with ourselves and one another. My goal is to provide my clients with a safe, supportive space to identify what is in the way of their growth toward becoming the person they desire to be and working together to overcome these hurdles.

In addition to becoming an LPC, I am working toward accreditation as a certified substance abuse counselor (CSAC). I am also certified in the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM)’s Criteria. The ASAM assessment is a comprehensive evaluation used to determine the appropriate level of care and develop treatment plans for individuals with substance use disorders and co-occurring conditions. I have also completed training as an AcuDetox Specialist through the National Acupuncture Detoxification Association (NADA) and offer this treatment to my clients, both individually and in group settings.

Though early in my professional journey, I have had the opportunity to counsel and support a variety of clients, each with unique strengths and struggles, from anxiety and depression to relational challenges and addiction. My integrated approach allows me to meet each client where they are. I have experience providing counseling services to adolescents and adults (ages 12 and up) who are struggling with the following challenges:

· Alcohol/drug/substance use and addiction (both with individuals and their family members)

· Depression and anxiety

· Shame, self-esteem, and self-image

· Wellness, spirituality, and mindfulness

· Grief, loss, and trauma

· Couples and family concerns, e.g., conflict resolution, boundary setting, intimacy, attachment, and communication difficulties

· Developmental and life transitions

No matter why you are seeking help, I admire your courage in beginning this journey. Whether you are struggling with your mental health, wondering why you continue to make harmful choices, or seeking change in your relationships, I am here to help you.

Outside of my counseling work, I enjoy reading fiction, running, and visiting national parks. I treasure time with my wife and hound dog, Maggie.