In 2001, driven by my own experiences as a child and adolescent navigating trauma and metal health challenges, I began to work with youth in residential treatment and in school settings. In 2013, I obtained my Masters in Social Work and began practicing therapy with adults. Initially trained in more "behavioral" approaches, while in the field I began to quickly see that these approaches did little to address the deeper traumas caused by structural racism, poverty and patriarchy, nor were they strength-based or tapping into inner resilience. I also noted much more radical healing happening outside of traditional therapy rooms, utilizing plant medicines and more body-based, trauma informed care like EMDR, a modality which I now am practiced in and find much more rewarding and helpful to clients.

In 2017, when my own son was identified as Autistic, my wife and I discovered the Neurodiversity Movement by directly seeking out Autistic adult voices. I was invigorated to find a celebration of neurological difference as a natural and integral part of humanity. This journey led me to the understanding and acceptance of my own neurodivergence, which I would characterize as a combination of ADHD and Autism.  It also sparked my passion to educate peers and parents on neurodiversity and acceptance and to provide affirming, strength-based counseling to youth and adults in a compassionate and non-ableist way, with the intention to serve and accommodate folks from all walks of life and abilities.  

I am experienced working with adults and youth with diagnosis such as autism, ADHD, schizophrenia and bipolar as well with folks experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD and other challenges. I utilize mindfulness, EMDR and somatic experiencing to support clients in building safety, addressing trauma and increasing well being. Knowing that all of us are uniquely neurologically wired, I cater my strategies to what works for you, the individual. I strive to remain conscious of my privilege as a white, cis-gendered male and prioritize the voice of the client as the expert on their reality. I also feel it vital to acknowledge the undeniable effects of systemic oppression and patriarchy on the mental health of all individuals, and in particular, people who have been historically marginalized. I am LGBTQ+ affirming and have experience providing therapy for transgender and non-binary clients.

I currently offer individual tele-therapy to adults and teens located in California and Texas. For parents needing consultation on supporting their neurdivergent children, including how to better accommodate, build connection and increase acceptance, I am also available. I welcome chatting with you for free to see if it working together would be a fit. I may agree to see some children younger than 12 on a case by case basis. 

I do not officially diagnose autism.  I do believe in the validity of self-identifying and self-diagnosis and support individuals by providing information, resources and feedback. If you need an official diagnosis please reach out to your insurance provider.