About Me

I grew up in a house without marriage. Although there was much love, there wasn’t a husband or a wife there.

I knew what a wedding looked like but I didn’t know what a Tuesday looked like.

Pre-Marital Counseling was a lifeline for me in the months before Sarah and I got married. We talked about important issues, picked up some vital skills, and we argued in the sunshine, when the pressure was low.

A few months after our wedding we moved to a college town and I had the opportunity to counsel over 50 couples toward lifelong love. I learned a lot over the years about what makes a marriage strong and fun. I love sharing those things with anyone else who wants to learn.

My marriage prep course is offered in the context of my Pastoral Counseling practice. I ask a lot of questions, do a lot of listening, look for areas in need of hope and healing, and then walk in those directions with those who felt like they were walking alone.

Sarah and I have been married for almost 13 years now and we have three kids. Through all the challenges and celebrations God has taken two hopeful kids and turned them into new people through oneness and grace.

I’m thankful for the wellness in our start and I would love to offer the same to you.

Qualifications:

  • Masters Degree in Clinical Mental Health from University of Louisiana Monroe
  • P-LPC – Provisional Licensed Professional Counselor in Mississippi under the supervision of Dean Worsham
  • Nationally Certified Counselor

frequently asked questions:

What is marriage prep/pre-marital counseling?

Marriage Prep - also known as Pre-Marital Counseling - is an intentional way for couples to set themselves up well for lifelong love. In addition to learning practical skills for communicating effectively, managing money, and cultivating intimacy, we'll also take a look at any expectations, hesitations, and parts of your story that you may be bringing down the aisle with you.

 

How do I begin?

Click here to begin. After that, we will reach out to you via email with the next steps.

How much does Starting Well cost?

My six-week Marriage Prep Course includes the cost of three counseling sessions ($132 each), plus $50 to cover the marriage assessment and book.

Note: I do offer some sliding scale slots for couples in need of pre-marital counseling but facing financial hardship.  Please let me know if that would be helpful.

Is this a Christian counseling course?

As a Pastoral Counselor and Pastor, my default framework for growing healthy marriages is helping engaged couples build their entire relationship upon the Gospel. For those who have a religious background, they will find plenty of help integrating their marriage with their faith.

At the same time, I also realize that there are many people without a religious background who desire a healthy and happy marriage. This course is also designed to meet them in that pursuit and offer helpful tools in an encouraging and confidential environment.

Is this Christian counseling?

I’m a person who tries to be more like Jesus every day.  Many of my Christian clients have said that my counseling style has helped them find a deeper understanding of the Gospel and a closer walk with God, in addition to helping them overcome their personal challenges.

I also recognize that people of all faiths (and no faith) can struggle with life’s burdens.  Everyone interested in being my client will be treated with empathy and respect and offered research-backed tools to help them take make the changes they desire, regardless of their background.

When should we begin pre-marital counseling?

You can begin the Marriage Prep Course at any time during your engagement. I would suggest scheduling it so that the sixth week is still at least three weeks away from the wedding. That way you can focus on the work you are doing in your relationship before the busyness of the wedding begins.

Couples often ask if they can do Marriage Prep before they get engaged. The answer is an emphatic YES! In fact, I believe that counseling and discernment should be sought before the engagement pictures end up on Instagram. Even if you aren't ready to kick off the full course, you can schedule a session to discuss the big decision together.

Are our conversations and communications private?

Yes. Your privacy and confidentiality are extremely important to me. You can be sure that everything discussed during this course is held in the strictest confidence.

Reach out to me:

All communication is private and confidential.