My Background

My Philosophy & Approach

My training and personal approach in helping people honors the various parts of personhood including the emotional, relational, psychological, physical and spiritual aspects of each person. My work involves collaborating with people using relational tools and processes that have been shown effective for enhancing communication and resolving conflict. I also have extensive experience helping people resolve forgiveness issues and in restoring hope.  In a safe environment of compassion and grace, I believe people are able to work through their concerns. As a general rule, those who are willing to practice new approaches in addressing issues they are facing are able to make the improvements they desire.

My Education & Training

I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education from Western Oregon University and a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at George Fox University.

My training and specialties include working with issues such as depression, anxiety, men’s issues, marital conflict, parenting skills, trust building, attachment issues, emotional regulation, church/spiritual abuse, and adoption-related issues.

I have completed major graduate coursework in Human Growth and Development, Marriage & Family Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Human Sexuality & Sexual Intimacy, Psychopathology, Spiritual Healing and Integration, Group Counseling, Restoration Therapy, Addiction and Substance Abuse Recovery, Ethics, and Adoption/Foster Care Attachment issues. I am also a certified Marriage Strong and Restoration Therapy facilitator.

My Licensure & Certification 

I was a Licensed Professional Counselor (License #6379) until the end of 2023. At that time I retired my license as I entered into a semi-retirement phase of my career. My license was in good standing at the time of this decision and not due to any negative circumstances. As I entered a new phase of my work I no longer felt the need to retain my license. I am more than happy to elaborate on this decision if desired. 

About Me as a Person

My wife and I have been married for 37 years, we have raised our 5 children, we are grandparents, and we do our best to center our lives around our faith, our family and our friends. I love spending time with my wife, kids and grandkids, I enjoy going on hikes, reading a good book, and on the weekends working on my humility with some good friends through the game of golf. I also enjoy practicing my favorite spiritual discipline - napping!