Professional Background
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW #L8317) and a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor I (CADCI #17-11-26). Originally from Chicago, I completed my undergraduate education at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and my graduate education (MSW) at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles. I began my career as an educator, college counselor, and coach. I have worked in community mental health clinics, private practice, high schools, colleges, and crisis centers. And I have experience building relationships with people of all ages and backgrounds.
As a therapist I am always working to improve. I utilize an approach to therapy called Feedback-Informed Treatment (FIT), in which I systematically measure outcome and elicit feedback to adjust and improve my treatment approach. I have provided training, supervision, and consultation on improving outcomes in systems of care. And I have been certified by the International Center for Clinical Excellence, a worldwide community of clinicians, researchers, and healthcare managers dedicated to improving outcomes in behavioral health.
Personally, I am a husband and father of three daughters. In my free time I enjoy reading, learning, and practicing jiu-jitsu. I’ll read anything about space or space travel. And I wouldn’t mind having time for video games.
My Approach
My approach is eclectic, and I would say that I am inspired by several modalities, including cognitive-behavioral, solutions-focused, dialectical behavior therapy skills, mindfulness-based therapy, acceptance and commitment, psychodynamic, motivational interviewing, and attachment theory. Above all I value our working relationship and I believe it is paramount that we agree on what we are pursuing and how. I strive to be open to feedback, tailoring my work to your needs. I can be direct or hands off, talkative or not. I can be authoritative, sharing my expertise and teaching coping skills, or I can simply listen and support you as you come to your own conclusions. I recognize how difficult it is to measure well-being, but I am passionate about measuring results and ensuring that you get what you need from therapy.