My name is Stephen, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate dedicated to helping individuals develop greater self-awareness, emotional resilience, and meaningful change. I earned my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Capella University and have extensive experience working with adults navigating substance use disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other co-occurring mental health concerns.
My name is Stephen, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate dedicated to helping individuals develop greater self-awareness, emotional resilience, and meaningful change. I earned my Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Capella University and have extensive experience working with adults navigating substance use disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other co-occurring mental health concerns.
My approach is grounded in person-centered therapy and integrates attachment-based, trauma-informed, and depth-oriented perspectives alongside mindfulness practices and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). I believe that healing and growth occur within a therapeutic relationship built on genuine presence, empathy, curiosity, and respect. Together, we will work to better understand the patterns, experiences, and beliefs that may be contributing to your current challenges while developing practical skills to support lasting change.
I am particularly interested in helping clients understand the origins of their patterns and responses with curiosity and compassion, creating space for both self-acceptance and meaningful change. Rather than viewing symptoms or behaviors in isolation, I believe there is often wisdom in understanding how people have adapted to life's challenges and experiences.
My work often involves exploring the deeper layers of experience that exist beneath symptoms, including longstanding patterns, protective adaptations, and the different aspects of self that emerge in response to life's challenges. Through this process, clients can develop greater internal understanding, self-compassion, and a stronger sense of alignment with their values and authentic way of being.
I take a holistic view of well-being, recognizing the interconnectedness of mind, body, relationships, and the broader context of a person's life. While exploring deeper emotional and relational patterns is often an important part of therapy, I also focus on helping clients build concrete tools for emotional regulation, communication, boundary setting, mindfulness, and navigating life's inevitable challenges.
In addition to my clinical training, I have completed 200-hour yoga teacher training and mindfulness teacher training, which inform my understanding of nervous system regulation, self-awareness, and the role of embodied practices in mental health. My work is collaborative and tailored to each individual's unique needs, values, and goals.
I believe people possess a remarkable capacity for growth, adaptation, and healing, even during periods of profound struggle. Whether you are seeking support for anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship concerns, life transitions, or recovery from substance use, I strive to provide a safe, supportive environment where you can explore your experiences, deepen your understanding of yourself, and move toward a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Outside of my work, I enjoy spending time with my family, practicing martial arts, being outdoors, playing music, cooking, and pursuing continuing education opportunities that deepen both my clinical knowledge and personal growth.