My family and I moved to Canal Fulton, OH in August 2023. Although we are new to the Akron-Canton area, Canal Fulton has quickly become our home. The community has been incredibly welcoming, and we love all that the surrounding area has to offer.

I first discovered Emerge when I was looking for internship sites in the greater Akron-Canton area. At the time, I was on a time crunch due to an unanticipated move to the area with my wife’s job (Costco). Ultimately, I was offered an internship position at another outpatient clinic in Canton. I later went on to serve at Safety Forces Support Center where I had the privilege of working with Dr. Lichi and learning more about Emerge.

When it comes to those who inspire me most in my life, I am inspired by my wife and three daughters. They each made significant sacrifices for me to pursue a career in counseling. They inspire me to continue learning and growing as a father, husband, Christ-follower, and new clinician. I am also inspired by my friend Jon who lost a short battle with ALS in 2021. Jon experienced numerous tragedies throughout his life as ALS slowly took his mother, sister, brother, and ultimately himself. Despite these tragic experiences, Jon held fast to his faith in Jesus Christ and continued to proclaim the goodness of God throughout his final days. Jon’s faith and passion for Christ continue to inspire me.

Among my favorite podcasts, I’ve recently begun listening to the Experience Emerge podcast and really enjoy the content. My wife and I also enjoy listening to the Dr. John Deloney Show.

Three books that have had a significant impact on my relationship with Christ and I would recommend as great tools and resources are The Knowledge of the Holy by A.W. Tozer, The Cost of Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis. All three books encouraged me to think deeper about my relationship with Christ and what it means to be a Christian.

The passion that drives me most in this role is the opportunity to demonstrate mercy and compassion to those who are suffering. As a former police officer, I discovered meaning, purpose, and excitement in simply sitting with others and offering a listening ear. Often this came in the form of meeting up with coworkers who were struggling or taking a little extra time talking with people I met in the community. Ultimately, I believe empathic human connection is essential for working through the challenges of life and I am passionate about offering that to my clients.

“Fun” to me is anything outdoors. My house backs up to the Tow Path and Tuscarawas River which provides ample opportunity for outdoor adventures. I enjoy walking and biking on the Tow Path and kayaking in the canal and river. Outside of my immediate area, I love Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Hocking Hills State Park, and Presque Isle, PA. I am also excited to get out and explore more of the Cleveland Metroparks this summer.

When it comes to favorite hobbies and achievements, I have been training in the “gentle art” of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for about seven years and I am currently a purple belt. I hope to eventually achieve my black belt. Lastly, I always enjoy meeting and talking with a friend over a cup of coffee. I hope I will be able to have that opportunity with many of you.