Objective

Aspiring marriage and family therapist seeking an internship position to leverage strong skills in relational therapy, systemic problem conceptualization, and compassionate client engagement. Committed to supporting individuals, couples, and families in achieving holistic well-being through evidence-based, empathetic, and inclusive therapeutic practices.

  • Highly motivated and dedicated professional with over 20 years of leadership and counseling experience in the United States Navy. Proficient in providing comprehensive support, mentorship, and counseling to diverse groups, focusing on mental health, family well-being, and professional development. Seeking to leverage strong interpersonal communication skills, resilience training expertise, and a commitment to family advocacy into a new career in Marriage and Family Therapy.

  • Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy
    National University – Expected Graduation: December 2026

    Bachelor of Arts in Social Science
    Brandman University – Graduated 2016, Cum Laude
    Minors: Criminal Justice, Psychology

    Associates of Arts in Chinese Mandarin
    Defense Language Institute – Graduated 2008

    • End Bedtime Problems and Help Kids Sleep: Top Non-Medication Interventions – Sep 2024​

    • Mental Health & Nutrition Certification Course – Sep 2024​

    • Social Anxiety and Perfectionism: Clinical Tools to Let Go of Unrealistic Standards and Build Real Connections – Jul 2024​

    • Play Therapy: Engaging Powerful Techniques for the Treatment of Disruptive Behavior Disorders and Trauma – Jun 2024​

    • Domestic & Intimate Partner Violence: The Complete Guide to Identification, Documentation, Reporting, and Trauma-Informed Responses – May 2024​

    • Over 75 Quick 'On the Spot' Techniques for Children and Adolescents with Emotional and Behavioral Problems – May 2024​

    • Bringing Baby Home - Essentials – Mar 2024​

    • The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work - Online Leader Training – Mar 2024​

    • Adult Mental Health First Aid – July 2023

    • Active Parenting Ages 0-5 – May 2023

    • Love and Logic Parenting – May 2023

    • Navy Master Training Specialist – 2016

  • Division Chief, United States Navy
    2004 – Present

    • Provided daily counseling and administrative oversight for a division of 43 Sailors with diverse professional and personal needs.

    • Trained over 400 Sailors in resilience, mental toughness, and holistic human performance, focusing on the development of mental, physical, and emotional toughness.

    • Served as Command Advisor on Parenthood and Pregnancy, offering resources and guidance on balancing Navy careers with family responsibilities.

    • Liaison for the Family Advocacy Program, leading prevention, victim safety support, and rehabilitative interventions for domestic abuse and child abuse cases within the command.

    • Co-founded the Misawa, Japan chapter of the Drug Education for Youth (DEFY) program, empowering military youth to adopt positive, drug-free lifestyles through leadership development and mentorship.

    Family Advocacy Program Liaison, U.S. Navy
    2023 – Present

    • Coordinated family counseling and services for military families involved in domestic violence or child abuse, ensuring command and offender accountability.

    • Delivered abuse prevention training and connected victims with resources for safety and rehabilitation.

    Warrior Toughness Instructor, U.S. Navy
    2019 – Present

    • Developed and led training programs that enhanced Sailors' resilience and mental toughness, emphasizing performance psychology and character development.

    • Counseling & Mentorship

    • Resilience & Mental Toughness Training

    • Family & Domestic Abuse Advocacy

    • Program Development & Implementation

    • Leadership & Team Development

    • Crisis Management & Support