About Us

My journey in the field of mental health and substance use treatment is deeply personal. I've walked the path of addiction and faced the challenges of incarceration. These experiences have not only shaped who I am but also fuel my passion for helping others navigate the complexities of life. I understand the struggles, the stigmas, and the hurdles that come with addiction and re-entry into society. It's this lived experience that informs my empathetic approach to counseling and drives me to create a safe, non-judgmental space for healing.

Over the years, I've gained extensive experience and qualifications, but what truly drives me is the belief that everyone deserves a chance at healing and happiness.

• Master of Social Work
  University of Iowa, Graduate College
• Master of Studies in Law
  University of Iowa, College of Law
• Bachelor's Degree in Kinesiology
  University of Minnesota
• Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC)
  Iowa Board of Certification
• Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW)
  State of Iowa
• Substance Abuse Professional
  US DOT
• Certified Forensic Mental Health Evaluator
  National Board of Forensic Evaluators

My philosophy as a counselor is to meet you where you are at and walk alongside you as you process through the different seasons of life. Life isn’t always easy, and we all could use a bit of help working through challenges that come. I believe that you are an expert of your own life and lived experiences, and I am here to provide space to listen and help process through thoughts, feelings, emotions, and concerns. 

It is my goal to help each individual become their best self, knowing that can look different to each and every individual. Together, we can explore your goals for treatment and get you on a path to achieving the life you desire. I have a strong passion for providing clients with options to improve quality of life, including physically, mentally, emotionally, socially, and spiritually, with the hope to improve and enhance overall self-worth. 

I enjoy working with a wide range of individuals and concerns. I specialize in working with both adolescents (13-17) and adults who struggle with substance use and/or addiction. I have experience working with individuals seeking services for anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and self-esteem as well as providing services to individuals who have been involved in the criminal

justice and juvenile justice systems. I practice from a trauma-informed lens and utilize a holistic perspective.

License, Education & Memberships

• Licensed Master Social Worker, licensed to practice in the state of Iowa

• Iowa Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC), certified to practice in the state of Iowa

• Master of Social Work from University of Northern Iowa, specialization in Trauma- Informed Care

• Bachelors of Social Work from University of Northern Iowa, specializations in mental health and substance use

• National Association of Social Workers Member

Frequently we find ourselves believing we need to change who we are to be worthy of the things we want in life. Through this work I’ve found the opposite to be true: it’s the ways we try to hide our authentic selves that creates the most misery. 

I work with folks engaging in a variety of compulsive behaviors (e.g. addiction), experiencing shame, anxiety, depression, grief & trauma. My work with clients is focused on meeting ourselves where we’re at with compassion, authenticity & acceptance. I do not tell clients how to think, act, feel or be; instead we work together to accept what is & to identify what can be possible to achieve your goals. From there we work to develop sustainable change to help you live the life you’re worthy of living. 

I do not believe shame motivates positive change and therefore offer a space free of judgement & full of compassion. This work is the privilege of my life & I welcome you to explore whether I’m a good fit for you.

Robert is a dedicated Master's student in Social Work at the University of Iowa, currently completing his practicum at Acceptance Recovery Counseling. He brings a unique blend of strategic thinking from his corporate leadership background and a compassionate, client-focused approach to therapy based on life experiences in his own sobriety journey. At ARC, Robert works in collaboration and under supervision with experienced clinicians, focusing on delivering evidence-based support to individuals navigating substance use and mental health challenges. His therapeutic style is person-centered and strengths-based, aiming to meet clients where they are in their recovery journey. Personally, Robert runs a non-profit agency geared to providing coaching, funding for upskilling, and job placement advice for justice involved individuals along with being a volunteer and community investor at many local organizations.