From Diverse Experience to Focused Expertise
My journey to becoming a therapist has been guided by one constant: a deep curiosity about human experience, connection, and growth. I go beyond textbook techniques; I bring a unique perspective, deep empathy, and real-world knowledge earned through diverse, hands-on experiences.
Before pursuing my clinical degree, I held various roles, including IT management, graphic design, and warehouse logistics. This varied history taught me a fundamental truth: every person has a complex and fascinating story built on struggle, resilience, and growth.
The Bridge to Focus and Stillness
For years, I served as a life coach, focusing on goal-setting and accountability. Central to my philosophical journey, I have taught archery for many years and assisted in teaching martial arts to youth and adults.
My background in martial arts and archery taught me that stillness and focus are skills we can build, not always traits we are born with. In therapy, I bring this same discipline to help you find your center amidst the chaos of anxiety, ADHD symptoms, or relationship conflict. I see firsthand how a present-moment focus, letting go of rumination on the past or paralyzing anxiety about a specific future, could lead to excellence and peace. This approach deeply informs my work, in which I help clients cultivate growth and possibility in the present.
Specialized, Affirming Practice
For over three decades, a significant and influential part of my life has been working with the kink and polyamorous communities. This work has been a masterclass in honest communication, boundary negotiation, and creating authentic, fulfilling relationships, often challenging societal norms.
My deep understanding of Polyamory, Consensual/Ethical Non-Monogamy (CNM, ENM), and diverse expressions of sex and intimacy makes me uniquely equipped to support you in your unique relationships and identities. Whether you are navigating a traditional relationship crisis or exploring complex non-monogamous relationships, my kink-aware therapy ensures a safe, non-judgmental space where your identity is honored and supported.
This same open-minded, humanistic approach extends to my work with men’s mental health and the elderly. I am passionate about helping adults across all life stages, from young professionals dealing with burnout to elderly individuals navigating late-life transitions, to rediscover intimacy, find meaning, and pursue happiness on your own terms.
My Commitment to You
I utilize a humanistic, person-centered approach that values the whole person; your thoughts, feelings, and relational systems. I firmly believe that a purely behavioral approach often fails to honor the emotional landscape that truly shapes our lives.
As an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT# 158068) under the supervision of Melissa Volchock, LMFT #120203, I am practicing under the clinical supervision of a licensed professional. This ensures you receive high-quality, ethically sound, and accountable therapeutic care, grounded in both rigorous training and diverse life experience.
You have a unique story, and I’m here to help you navigate it with focus, courage, and authenticity.
I look forward to connecting with you.
