Why did you become a therapist?

Why, that is a wonderful question. To be honest my understanding of the profession has matured over the years to the point my initial why has morphed and transformed over the years. The one constant however has been an unwavering desire to walk with those who are suffering. This, coupled with the belief that all of us have an innate goodness that strives for growth and healing has fueled me to continue and grow in this profession.

What should a client look for in a therapist?

I believe that clients should look for a clinician that is able to navigate both the science and art of therapy. By this, I mean that the therapeutic process is very organic and based on a interpersonal foundation that is not only scientific, but is also art. An effective therapist is also aware of the latest research in our field and is competent at applying and translating this knowledge into the lives of those they are working with.

How does your faith play itself out in your work as a therapist?

Therapy is an endeavor of hope and, consequently, a journey of faith. Faith in a better future, faith in healing, faith in a power greater than ourselves. I’ve found that my faith is critical in my interaction with clients because therapeutic healing is a journey of hope. Hope in the healing that is to come, yet it is not seen at the moment therapy begins.

Although the particular expression of my faith my not be directly apparent to my clients, I believe that it drives my interactions with them. Specifically, I see my clients as spiritual beings that are more than the sum of their physicality. Drawing from this belief, I encourage my clients to develop a view of themselves that is holistic and congruent with the person they have been, are, and will become.