Raised in South Florida, I became familiar with its diverse population. After high school, joined the military and began serving as a medic in hospitals throughout the country. There, I witnessed posttraumatic-stress-disorder, depression, anxiety, and more. Often, many of these men, women, and children needed someone that would listen to them. The experience in the military ignited an interest in mental health that slowly evolved into a calling.

A career in public service followed, and I spent twenty-five years until retirement supporting those in need. My focus was for those experiencing homelessness. Many of these men and women suffered from mental health issues like posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, and addictions. I frequently addressed mental health crises, focusing on crisis intervention and preservation.

My therapeutic focus is currently cognitive behavioral therapy, but I often rely on the benefits of dialectic behavioral therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy teaches us to understand that thoughts and feelings stimulate behavioral responses, which can impact us negatively; however, by practicing skills daily, we build routines that transform our thoughts and feelings and change behaviors. Think of a caterpillar as it transforms into a butterfly.

I love what I do, and I learn just as much from those that I guide. I am in this for the long haul, and I will give you my undivided focus each time we meet. This is a calling for me, which began a long time ago and has evolved into what it is today. I offer empathy, genuineness, experience, supportive feedback, authenticity and safety, and simply a different perspective. Ultimately, when we meet, you are the most important person to me. I will strive to guide you through the process so you will soon feel more confident, reassured, and empowered.

When I am in my free time, I do what I suggest others do, which is follow a routine and engage with my surroundings becoming more spiritual while using prayer and mindfulness. I do like nature and fishing even though I do not catch many fish. I also like spending time with my family and our Yorkie Sasha. Other hobbies include bicycling, walking, soccer, and visual arts. Lastly, I do volunteer work in my church because it is important to help others.