Meet David

I work with individuals & couples to reconnect while understanding how the past impacts present living. We collaborate to build a foundation of skills that promote healing as individuals and within relationships. My approach is grounded in human capacity for growth using a humanistic and strength based approach. I incorporate these modalities for processing trauma, anxiety, depression, and performance blocks. Therapy should be a collaborative process that provides a safe space to rediscover your strengths, while understanding and creating meaning from experiences, relationships and culture. Integrating our past and present empowers us to become creators of our lives rather than observers. Let’s work together to discover your path towards healing with sustainable growth and inner happiness.

EMDR & Trauma | As a therapist specializing in trauma my focus is on guiding individuals through a healing process following significant life events. EMDR is a powerful therapeutic approach that facilitates the reprocessing of distressing memories, enabling clients to integrate these experiences in a healthier mindset. With a deep commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment, I assist clients in navigating the complexities of trauma and its impact on mental well-being. My goal is to empower individuals to move beyond the constraints of past trauma, fostering resilience and promoting a healthy sense of self.

Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy | I offer a therapeutic modality called Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), the use of ketamine as a complement to psychotherapy. Research shows ketamine can be highly effective in reducing symptom's of PTSD, treatment resistant depression and anxiety.  I deliver KAP in my practice in partnership with an organization called Journey Clinical, which has a specialized medical team that determines eligibility for KAP, prescribes the ketamine, & supports us in monitoring outcomes.

Relationship Diversity & Relational Conflict | Sex, relationships, and self-expression are on a spectrum. Dynamics vary greatly from person to person and relationship. I am confident in working with all orientations of relationships (ie., polyamory, ethical non-monogamy) by creating a safe space to discuss your mental, emotional, and physical needs. Additionally, I excel with high conflict relationships whether that be within the relationship directly, presenting within the scope parenting challenges, or confronting behaviors that has stalled progress in the relationship.

LGBQTIA2S+  | As a queer male dedicated to supporting the mental health of the LGBTQIA community, I strive to create a safe and inclusive space where individuals can explore their identities without judgment. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by each person, I am committed to fostering understanding, empathy, and resilience. Together, we navigate the complexities of self-discovery, healing and growth.  I offer gender affirming letters as well. 

My ideal client is someone who approaches the therapeutic journey with a willingness to engage in the necessary work, even when it means sitting in discomfort. This individual values self-discovery, healing, and personal growth. Embracing vulnerability and openness, my ideal client is committed to exploring the depths of their experiences, understanding that true learning and change come from embracing difficult emotions. 

• Individual therapy for those who are age 18 or older

• Couples/partner therapy for those who are age 18 or older

• California: David is currently providing in person appointments in Sacramento, CA and tele-health appointments anywhere in the state of California.

• Connecticut: David is currently only providing tele-health appointments anywhere in the state of Connecticut. 

• Illinois: David is currently only providing tele-health appointments anywhere in the state of Illinois.  

California

• In the state of California, David accepts Private pay and insurance networks including:

• Aetna

• BCBS PPO

• United/UMR/Optum

• Sutter Health 

Connecticut

• In the state of Connecticut, David accepts Private Pay and insurance networks including:

• United/UHC/UMR/Optum

• Aetna

• Magellan & Yale

• BCBS/Anthem (PPO Only)

• Reach out to verify up to date information!

Illinois

• In the state of Illinois, David accepts private pay, Lyra, and insurance networks. 

• United/UHC/UMR/Optum 

• Aetna

• BCBS (PPO Only)

• Reach out to verify up to date information!
  

I started my career in adolescent behavior health while I sat on the Foster Care Review Board. I then became certified as Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC), and worked with individuals and groups struggling with substance use disorders which I truly enjoyed. After leaving Chicago, I have worked in hospice and palliative care as a grief counselor for 8 years. These experiences have allowed me to be a part of peoples life transitions and their healing journey.

Licensure

• State of Illinois | License Number: 149024051 

• State of Connecticut | License Number: 12337 

• State of California | License Number: 120353

Trainings

• 2021 | Gottman Method Level 1 and Level 2 training

• 2022 | EMDR trained

• 2024 | Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy - Journey Clinical

Education

• 2014 | Loyola University Chicago | Masters in Social Work

• 2013 | Arizona State University | Bachelors in Social Work

I live in northern California with my two dogs, Rocco and Mick. I enjoy being outdoors hiking, kayaking and gardening. I have a love of houseplants that I have learned to keep alive! I also enjoy traveling and trying new experiences.