- Department: Department of Educational and Human Sciences
- University: University of Central Florida
- Location: Florida
Life has truly been a journey for me and I’ve learned much along the way. From the deserts of Kuwait and Saudi Arabia (as a US Marine) to the halls of academia, I have been truly blessed to have lived what feels like several lives. Along the way, I’m had more than my share of failures (and blessedly, some accomplishments too) that have empowered me to recognize the struggles of others in a fairly unique way. I’ve walked many of the paths that my clients and students have and thus feel equipped to come alongside them to demonstrate the grace and truth that have been shared with me. In addition to God being my focal point, my wife and children hold the most special places in my heart and constantly remind me how truly blessed I am to have such wonderful fellow travelers.
Favorite Quote
“Habit, if not resisted, soon becomes necessity.” -- St. Augustine
Friends describe me
As good humored, willing to go the extra mile, structured/organized, and busy.
My hobbies
Triathlon/adventure racing, reading, playing with my kids, and movies
Fantasy dinner guests
Jesus (at the head of the table of course), C.S. Lewis, and Andy Stanley
Best advice I ever received
“Trust the Process”, which involves acknowledging and accepting one’s current feelings, circumstances, and experiences as a means to learning something about oneself, life, and the Lord (i.e. do not avoid/numb/deny/manipulate one’s circumstances until you know what you’re supposed to “get”).
My undergrad alma mater
University of Illinois - Chicago
My worst subject in school
English Literature (in undergrad), Statistics (in graduate school)
In college I drove
Motorcycle, Camaro, Ford EXP
If I weren't a professor, I would
be a fireman/paramedic
Favorite books
Odd Thomas (series) by Dean Koontz
Favorite movies
Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, Avengers
Favorite city
San Francisco
Favorite coffee
Vanilla Hazelnut from Einstein Brothers
Nobody knows I
like playing video games (when I have a free moment)
My latest accomplishment
• Named “Distinguished Alumni” by PhD granting institution, the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. • Helped my 7 year-old son learn to ride a two-wheeler (without training wheels!)
Current Research
• Integration of spirituality and counseling • Addicted family systems