When you start the process of trusting a new person with your deepest thoughts and formative experiences, you would naturally want to have an idea of whom you are meeting with.
My first passion was pursuing the life of a music professional. I was grateful to study and work with some talented teachers and artists. My identity as a musician was strongly-held. After starting my family, I knew for me to be the husband and father I wanted to be at my core, I would have to challenge that identity as a musician to find a new way.
Another area I find enjoyment in is process and continuous improvement. I pursued additional education and work experience in these areas and enjoyed working with engineering and supply chain leaders. There was something missing for me despite the bright career path presented to me. While that career path can bring a sense of fulfillment and liveliness to many, I knew there was more to my own story.
What was missing was the human component – I value working with people over processes. This led me to pursue my Masters in Mental Health Counseling so I could do the work that was most meaningful to me and allowed for a healthy work/life balance. Even before starting my formal studies, I read as many books and listened to as many podcasts from experts on the topics of trauma, addiction, and recovery. This was my language; these are the kind of people I wanted to be around.
When I’m not “in the chair”, I enjoy spending time with my wife and two children, getting coffee or breakfast with friends, hiking local trails, playing and learning new music, reading, and listening to podcasts on mental and physical health, mindset training, spirituality, and masculinity.
