With 19 years of experience, I earned my B.A. in Political Science at Montclair State University in New Jersey in 1994 and gained my Masters in Counseling at Denver Seminary in 2002. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado (#4201) and Arizona (#22661). As a resident of Westcliffe, Colorado and Green Valley, Arizona, I enjoy hiking, cycling, and exploring the beautiful landscapes of the American West. I have biked across the USA three times, the latest trip in 2017, and wrote a memoir about my first trip. I regularly make public presentations about my travel experiences and encourage others to live boldly and to pursue their dreams.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
I am passionate about helping my clients feel understood in their time of suffering — with their feelings validated, their life story honored, and their weaknesses, mistakes, failures, longings, etc., accepted without a hint of judgment. While I think I have much to offer my clients, I am not a "know it all" therapist. I want to learn from those who have turned their pain and suffering into something beautiful.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I care deeply about growth and healing issues. If you're desiring superficial "tips and techniques," I'm probably not your therapist. I want to go deeper with my clients, helping them to discuss and understand the dynamics (emotional and otherwise) that might be driving their feelings. I want every client to think of me and say, "That guy, Steve -- I know I can tell him anything and he will not laugh at me or judge me. In fact, he'll probably say, 'Oh, I've had that experience too.'"