When it comes to treatment, I use a pragmatic approach tailor-fitting treatment to each person. I consider myself eclectic, weaving many types of therapies together. I research and train in a variety of different approaches to put in my therapist toolbox. I individualize treatment to fit each person by equipping them with therapy tools for their daily life and encouraging involvement from a person's social support and community. This leads to successful outcomes for my clients.

My journey to becoming a mental health professional began at an early age. I enjoyed the joys of growing-up in a family with a loving mother, a father, and two older brothers. My family experienced the brokenness of a parental divorce, which was isolating and filled me with grief. As a teenager, I grew close to helping serve in my church. I watched as our youth pastor would close the door to his office to meet with a young person and their parents, and I would take trips to help serve kids at camps in mission trip settings. These experiences started my intrigue with the idea of 'counseling.' If there is a way to help rewrite or relate to a wrong or hurt for someone, I wanted to be a part of that process. By the time I was registering for my first year in college classes I felt a calling for this profession in my purpose for work.

Outside of work I enjoy reading books on faith, neuropsychology, and the social sciences. I also enjoy recreational activities such as running and sports. I like to unravel random thoughts, researching the internet for questions and topics as they come to mind. I also use my time to support the endeavors of my wife and kids.

I daily spend time in prayer and Bible devotion to help mentally, emotionally, and spiritually prepare myself to help others. This morning quiet time reminds me that my life is a service to God who aids in my 'care' and 'well-being.'

The Whosoevers is a non-profit started in 2009 based in California by Sonny Sandoval (lead vocalist of the band P.O.D.), and Ryan Ries (former pro skateboarder, author, speaker, radio show host) which aims to promote and spread The Gospel message of Christ, and to inspire young people to make positive choices in their lives. Growing-up in a broken family, P.O.D. was one of many musical influences that kept me grounded in my faith as a teenager, along with the youth group at church, and their music helped me stay on a healthy track towards life decisions. This organization aligns with the values I desire for the current young generation inundated with unhealthy influences, and serves as a vessel from which to be able to find hope and help to their lives.

I recharge with spending time alone listening to music, exercising, watching movies, participating in sports, and reading on the porch. These activities, along with conversations over coffee with my wife, and being a pretend horse with my kids, help me to unwind and refocus myself.

I have had couple of cats who were sisters. Their names were Tricks (the tortoiseshell) and Treats (the calico). Tricks loved to reach up and open door knobs and climb the highest echelons possible of cabinetry. Treats loved to lay around and serve as a living vibration pillow.