My therapy style is heavily based on the client-counselor relationship, initially in my career I was told when I just act myself I do better work and I've tried to lean into that. I try to have a general structure for individual sessions and the treatment course overall, but I have no problem deviating from it based on the needs of the client. I focus on the daily application of counseling theory and clarify what is truly important in a client's life. If there is anything to take away from therapy style, is that I'll always be honest with you and I will do the best with what I got.

I decided to become a counselor when I first got out of the military in 2014. I was a Corpsman (medic) with Marines for several years and really enjoyed being able to connect with people outside of the normal military social environment. When I decided to separate from the military I kept seeing reports of veteran suicide and decided that I could be of use by using my experience to help other veteran navigate civilian life. I've been fortunate since in that I have been able to help people from all walks of life and it has given me the same sense of purpose I initially felt while working with my Marines.

Outside of work, I generally keep a tight regimen of lifting, training Muay Thai, and going to Punk Rock shows. I also like to snowboard and paint on the weekends.

Being consistent in my routine while still allowing for variation has been extremely helpful. Implementing some sort of regular mindfulness practice has helped me immensely, whether it's structured meditation or simply being present with my wife. I have also been very fortunate to have really great people in my life and I get reminded of it pretty often.

I have read Mans Search for Meaning from Viktor Frankl more than once. It was one of the first books that made me want to be a counselor and I always find myself going back to it when I'm feel bad about the state of the world.

2nd Harvest is a great organization in my local area, they are non profit that provides food for many of the food banks and I've seen them help a lot of the homeless people in my community.

I recharge by spending time with my wife, seeing my friends, and playing video games. I have recently started to really see the value in allowing my nervous system to down regulate at the end of the day and making the time to slow down.

I have two dogs, a Rottweiler and a French Bulldog mix. My favorite story about my pet is when I first adopted my Frenchie mix and we came back from a walk after having him for maybe 3 days and he just jumped on the couch and licked my face. It was the first time he had done that and I always thought that's when he decided he was gonna stay.