I tailor my therapeutic approach to meet you exactly where you are. Over my career, I have developed specialized expertise in several key areas. These areas include men's and women's mental health, men in trades, military veterans and first responders, relationship, marriage and parenting counseling, college student counseling and faith-supportive counseling. I am particularly passionate about serving men who work in the skilled trades, manufacturing and industrial sectors. As an underserved population, I want tradesmen to know we will comfortably address stress, physical burnout and emotional wellness. I offer a straightforward, down-to-earth space for both men and women to navigate high-pressure careers, life transitions and personal growth. I also help college students manage academic stress, identity development, anxiety and major life transitions. As a designated Star Behavioral Health Provider, I am deeply committed to serving veterans and public safety personnel, offering them specialized care. In addition, I have decades of experience providing mental healthcare to nurses – helping to find a balance between work, home and family life. Relationships and family are the cornerstones of our well-being. I work with couples and their communication patterns and trust, and parents who are navigating the challenges of raising children of all ages. I also provide specialized, confidential support for individuals navigating sexual or pornography addiction and recovery. For individuals who wish to integrate their spirituality into their healing process, I offer therapy that respects and aligns with their personal values and beliefs. I have empathy for those struggling. I know first-hand how difficult experiences, losses and hardships refine and shape us and affect our growth and development. My philosophy of patient care is grounded in respect, compassion, collaboration and the belief that every individual possesses inherent strengths and the capacity for growth. I am committed to providing a safe, supportive and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel heard, valued and empowered to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. To me, mental health counseling is a collaborative partnership in which the client is the expert on their own life. My role is to offer guidance, evidence-based interventions and support throughout the healing process. I recognize that each person's journey is unique and influenced by their cultural background, personal values, relationships, faith, and life experiences. Effective counseling is built upon trust, authenticity and empathy. By fostering a strong therapeutic relationship, I encourage healthy emotion expression and create space for clients to process difficult feelings without fear of judgment. Together, we will work to make positive changes by identifying meaningful goals and creating practical steps toward achieving them. Ultimately, I believe in helping individuals develop hope, strengthen their sense of purpose, deepen meaningful connections, and find joy in their daily lives. I value building a strong connection and working alongside patients as we navigate life's difficulties, striving to create a comfortable environment where they feel safe to themself and openly express their emotions. Prior to becoming a counselor, I was a member of the Teamsters Union, working long hours in the trucking and transportation industry in Green Bay and Chicago. I understand the toll jobs like this can take on mental health. I also worked full time as a college counselor for 15 years before currently becoming part time college instructor. I have been married for over 30 years with four children and multiple grandchildren. My spouse is also a counselor. We have a ShihPoo therapy dog named Sami and like to travel. I am a leader at my church and enjoy playing video games, cooking and music – especially live concerts."