“When we honestly ask ourselves which person in our lives means the most to us, we often find that it is those who…listen to us…and touch our wounds with a gentle and tender hand.” Henri Nouwen
Philosophy and Therapeutic Approach
One of the things I love most about therapy is discovering why we are the way we are. Each of us is shaped by a combination of genetics, life experiences, and learned beliefs—some helpful, some hurtful. Therapy offers us the sacred opportunity to look back at where we have been, where we are currently, and where we are headed.
As your therapist, I consider it a privilege to walk with you on this journey, not as someone who has all the answers, but as a caring, empathic presence committed to helping you process, reflect, and grow. My primary theoretical approach is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a research-supported framework that helps uncover the connection between our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. But therapy is more than theory; it’s a relationship. I will work to create a space where you feel safe, heard, and fully accepted. You are more than the face you wear in public—my desire is to truly know the real you and to help you know yourself with grace and clarity.
Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, grief, trauma, spiritual questions, relational pain, or just a general sense that life isn’t what it could be, I will create a warm, non-judgmental space where you feel empowered to do the courageous work of healing.
What to Expect in Therapy
Starting therapy takes a tremendous amount of bravery. It can be overwhelming to tell your story, to be vulnerable in front of someone new, and to face things you may have kept buried for years. I honor that courage.
In our sessions, you can expect a welcoming environment where all of you is safe—the questions, the doubts, the pain, and even the messy parts you’re not sure what to do with. This is a space where you don’t have to perform. You can breathe deeply and be real. We will work together at a pace that feels right for you. There’s no pressure, only partnership.
My goal is to come alongside you, not to fix you, but to support you in discovering clarity, healing, and forward movement. Think of it like organizing a cluttered garage: we might stir up some dust at first, but eventually we will be able to see what’s there, make sense of it, and create space for something better.
Personal Qualifications and Experience
I bring a unique blend of medical and pastoral experience into the counseling room. For the past 36 years, I have practiced as an eye doctor and have been actively involved in medical missions around the world. About 20 years ago, God called me into full-time ministry, which led my family to relocate from Illinois to Colorado to help plant a church in Reunion, a growing suburb near Denver International Airport. It has now grown into a vibrant 1,000-person church, where I currently serve as Lead Pastor.
These dual callings, medicine and ministry, have shaped how I see people. I’m attentive to both the physical and spiritual aspects of life, and I’m passionate about the integration of mind, body, soul, and spirit. I enjoy incorporating Christian faith into counseling work, if you desire, but I deeply respect wherever you are in your spiritual journey. My commitment is to meet you exactly where you are.
My approach is rooted in curiosity, compassion, and a deep belief that healing is possible—and that it’s never too late to grow.
Personal Interests
I’ve been married for 37 years, and we have three grown children, ages 20 to 27, and two grandchildren who have completely stolen our hearts. Although our family is spread across three states, we are intentional about staying close and spending time together as often as possible.
I love to travel and explore different cultures. Some of my favorite places include Honduras, Budapest, Berlin, Moscow, Jerusalem, and India. These experiences have broadened my view of humanity and deepened my appreciation for the rich diversity of perspectives in the world.
One of my personal long-term goals has been to “walk around the world” over a ten-year period, about 25,000 miles. That averages out to walking about 7 miles per day, every day, for 10 years. I’m currently in year 6 of that journey, and on pace to finish in 2029. Long-term goals keep me grounded and inspired.
When I’m not walking, counseling, or spending time with my family, you’ll find me enjoying great food, playing cards with friends, listening to a variety of music, and rarely missing an episode of Jeopardy.
Therapy is a courageous and deeply personal journey, and I am honored to walk that road with you. Let’s take the first step, together.
