I have attempted throughout my academic career to prepare myself to provide effective therapy for a variety of concerns that affect ordinary people in their everyday lives. I began my studies at Sioux Falls College, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, a small Baptist College located in southeastern South Dakota. I received a B.A. in Psychology, and my first formal exposure to the basic concepts of psychology in a Christian undergraduate program.
	I obtained my masters degree from South Dakota State University, an M.S, in Counseling and Human Resource Development. My main emphasis while there was counseling in an agency and/or individual practice. In addition, I gained considerable experience in the application of assessment for personality disorders, while interning at the campus counseling center. My doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology was conferred by the Minnesota School of Professional Psychology, at the Twin Cities Campus in Bloomington, Minnesota. While there I augmented my studies in depression, anxiety and personality disorders, with intervention strategies for various mental health concerns. In addition, I obtained a minor in Religion and Psychology, in order to address issues related to spirituality and existential concerns and incorporate them into the therapeutic process. All of these academic pursuits included internships and practicums working directly with individuals, couples, and groups, in order to apply the education and experience I have received to the real life struggles and challenges that confront my clients.