I am a graduate student at Colorado Christian University, pursuing a degree in clinical mental health counseling. Although originally from Chicago, for the last 22 years my wife and family have lived in central Iowa and consider it our adoptive home. After receiving my Master’s of Divinity from Western Theological Seminary back in 1996, I have had the privilege of being in pastoral ministry for the past 28 years. I am excited about this new chapter in life as God leads me towards becoming a licensed therapist, and it is an honor to be able to intern here at CityReach.

While there are numerous reasons why people seek counseling, each is a unique case where the counselor’s role is to use their training and experience to help a client tap into their own strengths and abilities to improve their lives. Therefore, my approach to counseling is person-centered, relational, confidential, and always encouraging. After all, life can be hard. But know that you are not alone! It is my privilege to journey alongside of you as you tackle the challenges of life and grow to become the healthy, flourishing person God created you to be. Besides counseling individuals and couples, I am also able to relate to the unique challenges and hardships that pastors and ministry leaders face today. Ministry leaders often feel wounded, alone, and isolated while serving God’s people. Drawing upon almost three decades of pastoral experience enables me to speak to the particular needs of ministry leaders with empathy and understanding.

Let me conclude with a little more about myself. I have been married to my best friend, Cindy, for more than 33 years; we have four adult children (3 of which are married) aged 27, 25, 23, and 21; we have one happy Bernese Mountain dog named Kota, who has yet to meet a stranger; and one very exasperating cat. I thoroughly enjoy spending time with my wife and family; getting together with close friends; hiking in the Rockies; adding to my extensive library; reading good books while drinking great coffee; and I am a passionate, old-school weightlifter. However, the most important part of my life is my relationship to God through His Son Jesus Christ, who, in spite of my sins, shortcomings, and eccentricities, saved me and calls me His own.