About Me
This is where you get to learn a little bit about me. Most people that have been around
awhile have a story. Well I have been around for quite a while and I certainly have
quite a story.
I was born and raised in Michigan among a wealth of family (1 sister, 1 brother) and
friends, I have enjoyed God's blessings quite early. As a youngster, I can recall being extra-sensitive, more than “normal” to the moods and feelings of others (now termed "empathic"). I remember being impressed by those people who were able to inspire, motivate, and positively affect others' moods, and I have sought out and have been fortunate to have had several pivotal relationships with such individuals. I have always been interested in helping people discover what's "right about them" in the process of understanding and analyzing their situation and perceived problems. While educated and trained in clinical psychology, I acknowledge my strengths as being blessed with a benevolent and compassionate heart in conjunction with sound clinical skills and instincts.
I began my career working with adolescents and families, particularly those in crisis. I
had the opportunity to train and work at the Clinic for Child Study in Detroit, Michigan.
I served as a school psychologist in Oakland County, Michigan for several years.
I then joined a practice of Clinical and Forensic Psychology (forensic=legal arena),
where I became involved in many interesting and challenging clinical cases.
I have taught Psychology at the College and University level with both Undergraduate
and Graduate students since 1990 - essentially my entire professional career. I have
also maintained a clinical psychotherapy practice with children and their families, as
well as adults, where I utilized my foundation of faith and belief in God in conjunction
along with my clinical skills to provide Christian counseling services. People may
wonder what Christian counseling is and how it differs from those psychologists taking
a more secular approach to their practice. I write about Christian counseling here in
my blog for you to get an idea. Having been in practice for over 36 years has allowed
me vast experience to understand and treat a wide spectrum of the human condition.
I would describe my approach as eclectic in that I select and utilize what is most true or precise in theory from various sources or systems. An eclectic psychologist uses the most appropriate and valid diagnostic and treatment approach for that particular individual.
As a quick example, in the treatment of Bipolar I disorder, it is essential to acknowledge and treat the medical component of this condition, and ignoring this is a betrayal of the standard of practice. Being an instrument and servant of God, I realize the tremendous benefits of any psychotherapy that gives glory to Him.
Personally, I have many avocational interests. Fulfilling my dreams and passion, I write and play music. Playing mainly stringed musical instruments-including guitar and bass guitar, and have bluffed my way on the piano in fine restaurants (until I got the hook). I write and play music that is both secular (I love"roots music" and rhythm & blues and devotional music. The music I love is my spiritual music, and I go there to find peace and grace.