“My mission in counseling is to bring hope, healing and clarity to those who feel downcast, directionless or paralyzed by fear. I aim to empower individuals to rediscover their God-given value and purpose, and to walk calmly in a life of peace—with God, with themselves, and with others.”
Tom fosters a supportive and understanding environment at the core of his counseling approach. He values collaboration and, when appropriate and with consent, welcomes the involvement of trusted individuals, such as family members, pastors, shepherding elders, or supportive friends, to enrich the therapeutic process. His approach emphasizes resilience-building, emotional regulation, and skill development in a safe, cooperative setting. By honoring each individual’s personal, relational and spiritual context, Tom creates a space for deeper healing and meaningful growth.
Tom utilizes a range of evidence-based therapies to support meaningful change and emotional well-being. He primarily employs Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help individuals reframe unhelpful thoughts and develop adaptive coping strategies. For couples, he uses Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to strengthen emotional bonds and improve communication. He also facilitates group therapy, incorporating elements of CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and distress tolerance skills to foster growth in a collaborative setting.
Tom is a seasoned psychologist specializing in outpatient therapy, with extensive experience helping individuals navigate mental health challenges. He has been a dedicated member of Pine Rest since 2000 and holds a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC) credential in addiction counseling. Faith is central to his practice, shaping his compassionate and holistic approach to care. Tom is a published author, writing about faith in the mental health space, and actively participates in Faith Community Outreach, an initiative within Pine Rest that seeks to connect area clergy, churches, and ministries to services available from Pine Rest; as well as develop new services specifically designed to benefit the faith community. Tom earned his M.A. in Clinical Psychology from Wheaton College Graduate School.
