Growing up in a small midwestern town, Dave learned the value of hard work, being connected to community and family, and a love for the land on which he lived. What he didn’t necessarily learn was how to value those who saw the world differently than him and how to love people where they were at, regardless of whether they fit the mold he was told to fit into or not. That lesson came later in life as he moved into college and on into his professional career. He came to realize he couldn’t balance his personal values of believing in the goodness of all people with the pain inflicted by the values of the institutions in which he was raised. So began a search for something different that continues to this day. He has been given the opportunity to have some unique experiences from which to draw on in his life: from working on support teams at personal development retreats, to becoming a small-business coach within a multi-national franchising organization, to building a company that grew exponentially and eventually sold to a publicly traded company. These experiences helped foster a love for entrepreneurship, coaching, development, and introspection. They also introduced him to anxiety, depression, and the loneliness of leadership. He’s been in despair and feels for those who struggle to find hope.

Dave readily recalls the struggles to form a loving bond with his wife of almost 20 years, Julie, especially during some difficult early years. When they were young he fought her desire to seek counseling, thinking they “could fix it ourselves”. Ultimately, they couldn’t and needed the support of the therapeutic space to create the necessary safety to work through the hard discussions that being in committed relationship inevitably brings. He couldn’t be more grateful for her wisdom and perseverance. Going through the therapeutic process took him from an unwilling participant to an all-out advocate for the importance of therapy for all people. Dave believes the therapy office is one of the most sacred spaces in our society today; a space where you can know and be known, without judgment or condemnation. A place to explore, question, grieve, celebrate, and expand. It’s a beautiful space.

In addition to working as a therapist and executive coach, Dave is “Dad” to three kids who are growing up faster than he could ever imagine. It’s by far his favorite role and title. He loves being outdoors - especially anything that involves water. He also love to travel and enjoy new experiences. When Dave’s at home you’ll probably find him listening to music, cooking a delicious meal, watching a guilty pleasure like Suits or Friday Night Lights, wood-working or doing other projects around the house, and having campfires with friends and neighbors.