I am a LMHC (Licensed Mental Health Counselor) currently licensed in Florida. I have 5 years experience in this capacity, as well as 24 years as a para-professional providing crisis response services (CISM, Peer Support) to First Responders (I am a retired Law Enforcement Officer with 28 years of experience). In addition to my first responder work, I have also had the pleasure of providing counseling services to many of the same people that I had arrested. I mention this because it is not where you’ve been or where you’re at, but where you want to be. I value the person. I have worked with clients over trauma issues, anxiety, depression, coping, existential/quality of life concerns, etc. I take an integrative approach to counseling, adjusting to best serve the client’s needs. I am direct and factual in my approach with clients, as I don’t believe in ambiguity or leaving someone guessing. That being said, effective counseling also requires warmth, caring and support. I find that a sprinkling of appropriate humor helps to facilitate the process, but most of all, sincerity is the key to a successful collaborative experience. I bring a lot of life experience to counseling, especially trauma/crisis issues for First Responders. I do not just talk the talk, I have walked the walk.