I've carved a unique path in the realm of psychology, one deeply rooted in my own military background. My journey began in the Army, where I not only served but was later trained to become a psychologist. This dual experience has endowed me with a depth of insight that uniquely blends the rigors of military life with the subtleties of psychological care.
Being shaped by the very institution our heroes serve in has granted me a firsthand understanding of the military ethos, its challenges, and its profound impact on an individual's mental well-being. This dual expertise allows me to not just sympathize with the unique mental health challenges faced by veterans, but to deeply empathize with them. My approach is grounded in genuine lived experiences, bridging a gap that often exists in this field.
When comparing my approach to that of civilian psychologists who lack a military background, it's evident that my experience in the military landscape offers a cultural competency that is hard to replicate. While a psychologist who is solely a veteran might connect on the level of shared service experience, my Army-backed psychological training enables me to bridge the gap between those experiences and actionable, therapeutic insights.
Choosing to work with me means opting for a professional who sees beyond the uniform. I understand both the pride and the pressures of military service intimately. My goal is to provide a uniquely tailored assessment experience, one that not only recognizes the valor of our servicemen and servicewomen but also addresses their needs with the utmost care and expertise. My practice is a dedication to those who have served, ensuring their psychological care is as honorable as their service.
My psychological training, under the guidance of the Department of Defense, has been a multifaceted journey. It has equipped me to explore the depths of mental health challenges, with a special focus on traumas experienced in various contexts. One of the most impactful experiences of my training was my time on Ford Island in Hawaii, near the historic site of Pearl Harbor. This location, saturated with history, profoundly deepened my comprehension of combat trauma and the collective trauma that the place symbolizes.
I obtained my doctoral degree in clinical psychology from the Arizona School of Professional Psychology, an esteemed institution recognized by the American Psychological Association. My training encompassed a Pre-Doctoral internship at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu and a Post-Doctoral tenure at the Arizona Department of Corrections Lewis Prison Complex. Furthermore, my skill set was enhanced at the Center for Deployment Psychology and during my time at Walter Reed Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland. Here, I refined techniques in Prolonged Exposure therapy, Cognitive Processing therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy, all crucial in treating complex traumas.
Beyond my psychological acumen, I hold a Master’s Degree in Business Administration, which has been integral in my roles across the corporate realm, entrepreneurship, and academia. This blend of psychology and business has imbued me with a unique perspective, especially in understanding the multifaceted challenges faced in professional environments.
As a military veteran, my service is not just a past role but a core part of my identity. It fuels my empathy and dedication to those who have served. This lived experience ensures that my approach is not only professional and knowledgeable but also deeply empathetic and understanding.
My desire to serve those who have served is the cornerstone of my practice. In founding Purple Heart Behavioral Health, LLC, my mission is to offer comprehensive assessments and support for individuals grappling with mental health challenges, including PTSD, Trauma, and Anxiety. My approach is personalized, acknowledging the valor of our servicemen and servicewomen while addressing their needs with the highest degree of care and expertise.
My life outside of my profession is governed by a philosophy of breaking free from societal constraints and fostering genuine self-expression. I am an advocate for creating a world that embraces empathy and understanding. My personal time is spent seeking solace in nature, enjoying cinematic adventures, and cherishing moments with my family. Through my work and personal ethos, I strive to contribute to a world that is more compassionate and supportive, not just for my family but for everyone seeking mental clarity and positive well-being.
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