I identify as a neurotypical cisgender white male, rooted in Jewish culture and enriched by Buddhist principles and practices. My journey began in Northern California and led me to academic achievements, including a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Oregon, a Master of Arts in TESOL Education from Tel-Aviv University in Israel, and a Master of Social Work from San Jose State University. I hold a license to practice therapy in California (LCSW #88259), granted by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences.
Currently, I work part-time for The County of Santa Cruz Health Services Agency as a therapist in the Adult Behavioral Health Department and part-time as a private practice therapist. At the County I provide individual and group therapy services to adults with persistent and serious mental illness. In my private practice I provide individual and couples therapy to adults interested in change, improving communication with themselves and others, and healing from trauma.
My quest for understanding and personal growth has taken me across the continents, traversing Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Central America, and the United States. These diverse experiences have broadened my perspective on the human experience, revealing the myriad paths one can tread in this journey called life.
At the core of both my professional and personal evolution lies my profound connection to movement, nature, and spirituality. I've honed my mindfulness practice through extensive training with The Art of Living and Vipassana, while continuing to deepen my Buddhist exploration at Insight Santa Cruz, where I lead a monthly meditation group.
From my early days, I've always loved sports. I've shared my passion through coaching and officiating youth and high school basketball and during my time in Oregon, I was a devoted Ducks basketball fan.
Over the past two decades, activities such as yoga, backpacking, hiking, rock climbing, swimming, and surfing have been my chosen avenues to commune with nature and nurture my physical well-being.
As a father myself, I intimately understand the trials and triumphs of parenthood. I view this role as one of life's most profound opportunities for self-discovery, as we learn about ourselves through the art of parenting.
Both my professional and personal experiences have given me the privilege of connecting with a rich tapestry of individuals from diverse backgrounds. For a more comprehensive glimpse into my professional journey, I invite you to explore my LinkedIn profile.
In 2020, I collaborated with my friend and local Santa Cruz artist, Michael Lane, to bring the children's book "We Love to Surf" into the world. This soul project has found its way into the hearts of children and parents worldwide and was recognized by Santa Cruz Waves magazine.
I've spent that past few years specializing in Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy. Through extensive training and working as staff for the IFS Institute Level 1 Training, and directly with Dick Schwartz and Jeanne Catanzaro's Harmony Within workshop, I am able to deliver IFS Therapy in an integrated and effective way during therapy sessions.
Feel free to listen to my interview on the Area 831 Podcast about depression and mental health for Depression Awareness Month from October 2023.