Grief counselors and therapists in Asheville, NC

I have been a Social Worker for 30 years! That's crazy for me to think about because I am not THAT old......and I have learned a lot (about myself) along the way. I have learned that I do like to talk to people more than I let on. I have learned that I can be very patient listener and I give good feedback. And, I have learned that, at some point, we all have to make changes in our lives and that can be scary. I have also learned it's not as scary when we talk about it out loud........just saying.

I earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from the University of North Carolina at Asheville and a 2022 graduate of Walden University and earned a Master of Science Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.

I recognize and appreciate that every person is a unique individual and there is not a “one size fits all” approach to counseling. I will work with you to determine the best approach to meet your goals. I am a North Carolina Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist-Associate who serves adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I work with young people experiencing disruptive behaviors, and individuals experiencing change of life concerns, anxiety, depression, and adjustment disorders, as well as aiding individuals in developing anger management skills and coping skills to address emotional and behavioral concerns.

Life can pull us in a hundred different directions, and sometimes it takes slowing down, getting real, and having honest conversations to find our way forward. My approach is straightforward and commpassionate - no judgment, no fluff. I meet you where you are, walk beside you through the challenges, and help you rediscover your strength, clarity, and purpose.

It has been a privilege to provide psychotherapy to a variety of clients for over 20 years. I have advanced clinical training in trauma, addictions, sexual abuse, mood and personality disorders, and relationships. My therapeutic style is warm, direct, and encouraging. I provide support as you examine core issues and change underlying patterns of behavior or simply gain perspective concerning a recent issue.

About Me

I'm not your typical psychotherapist, and everyone I've had the honor to work with on their life's journey can attest to this. Born, raised and forged in the "Steel City" and sharpened in the "City of Brotherly Love", the term "Alchemist" more accurately describes who I am. I specialize in alchemizing pain into purpose and trauma into triumph. If you're ready to transform your life, I'm your guy!

I specialize in working with clients experiencing anxiety. depression, trauma, and disconnect in their relationships. I am a trauma focused clinician and work to meet clients where they are in their mental health journey.

As a licensed clinical social worker, I understand the importance of providing exceptional care that is both compassionate and empathetic. I am currently licensed in North Carolina and Virginia. I hold a Master of Social Work from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

During my academic years, I worked as an assistant to the court psychologist at the Department of Juvenile Justice in Charlotte, NC. I had the opportunity to assist with juvenile court reports and attend court hearings for youth offenders. I also worked alongside mental health professionals mentoring underserved youth in underrepresented areas of Mecklenburg County. Following my undergraduate degree, I gained extensive experience in various pediatric behavioral health settings, providing therapeutic interventions and community-based rehabilitative services. I have over 12 years experience providing mental health assistance and treatment to our military population and their family members, who have been impacted by domestic violence, child abuse, child neglect, anxiety, depression, PTSD, conflict, anger, relationship distress, and adjustment issues. In addition to therapy, I have experience working in federal behavior health policy and research.

I believe therapy should be a safe space where individuals can openly and honestly discuss most aspects of life to enhance their mental wellbeing. My therapeutic approach is client-centered, and I work closely with each individual and couple to identify their unique needs and establish the best therapeutic approach. Despite my training in various modalities focused on grief, couples, anger, and trauma, I prefer to use cognitive-behavioral therapy and solution-focused therapy techniques in my work with couples and individuals.