My path to becoming a therapist wasn’t traditional, and I think that’s part of what makes me successful at this meaningful work. I'm a first-generation American, born in New York City to parents who survived the horrors of World War II and immigrated from Europe. I was raised by loving Christian parents who encouraged me to seek understanding and make thoughtful decisions for myself. Growing up, I learned that life can be incredibly hard - but also full of love, connection, and resilience.
Before becoming a therapist, I followed a few different roads. I earned degrees in jazz performance and music education from Western Washington University and spent years teaching music in public schools. Over time, I developed a deep interest in the underlying factors that drive human behavior, psychological distress, and resilience, which led me to begin independently studying the field of psychology.
After stints in the tech world and construction, my life’s direction changed when I was having trouble healing from a car accident. That experience forced me to pause, reflect, and reimagine my life. With encouragement from a therapist, I unexpectedly found my true calling in mental health. I earned my Master’s Degree in Counseling from Saybrook University and completed my clinical training at Sound Mental Health in Auburn, Washington.
A Little More About Me
I love people, and I love to play. Honestly, I often feel like a 9-year-old in a 60-year-old body - with just a little more wisdom and back pain. Whether I’m in a therapy session or chatting with strangers in everyday life, I often find myself trying to bring a little unexpected joy to the moment - even if it’s just a shared smile. These spontaneous connections and the relationships that come from them are part of what make life unpredictable, challenging, and deeply rewarding.
Outside of my work as a therapist, I have the privilege of being married to my best friend, Crystal. We met at a dance while attending Western Washington University in Bellingham, and I’ve admired her strength, beauty, and character ever since. She supports me in being my full, creative, goofy self - and that’s a gift I never take for granted. Together, we love traveling, exploring, and seeking out new adventures. We’re also proud parents of three adult children who have flown the nest.
I’ve always been a dog lover (though I did serve my time caring for two cats early in our marriage). In my free time, you’ll often find me working on home projects, tackling creative challenges, hiking, backpacking, fishing, enjoying live music, discovering new food spots, or camping with my wife. I’m always drawn to new experiences that spark my curiosity and sense of adventure.
How I Work
I see therapy as a place where you can explore who you are, expose your blind spots, and move toward who you want to become. I believe that the same part of you that feels stuck or overwhelmed also holds your strength, creativity, and capacity for change - even if it doesn't feel that way right now.
I work with people who are dealing with anxiety, OCD, intrusive thoughts, rumination, and the emotional weight that often comes with it - grief, anger, self-doubt, and relationship stress. What excites me most is helping people find their way back to a better version of themselves, one step at a time.
Therapy with me is supportive, honest, and focused on helping you build tools that truly make a difference. I'm here to walk with you through the struggle to help you discover the way forward, not give you all the answers.
Where I Am Now
Today, I work exclusively online with clients across Washington State. I’ve helped many people make meaningful progress in their recovery of these tricky disorders where they no longer need my services. By using a virtual space that’s flexible, accessible, and secure, it has helped remove some barriers to getting specialized help to people that need it.
In my private practice, I’m committed to continually expanding my knowledge and skills so I can offer the highest quality care to assist my clients in making meaningful progress. I’m currently writing a book on treating obsessive rumination, drawing from the evidence-based strategies that have proven most effective in my work with clients.
If you’re ready to take the next step, I’d be honored to talk with you.
Let’s see if we’re a good fit. Your journey doesn’t have to begin with all the answers - just your willingness to start.
Education: Master’s in Psychology, Counseling Specialization, Saybrook University (LIOS)
License: LH61355288, Washington State Department of Health
