My name is Aaron and I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor with almost 13-years of experience working with acute and chronic mental health disorders in both Missouri and Oklahoma.  I have lived in and around Four State area since 1985 and returned to my adopted hometown after serving in the United States Marine Corps. I graduated with a Bachelors of Arts in Social Science and Psychology from Pittsburg State University in 1999, and then returned and obtained a Master’s of Science in Counseling in 2012.

My diverse background includes working with a variety of clients. I have worked children and teenagers struggling with depression, anxiety, and/or substance use disorders. I have also counseled adults struggling acute and chronic mental health conditions, including co-occurring disorders. I have also guided teenagers and adults with substance-use disorders as well as various court ordered treatment and assessments. I have also used my own personal experience in veterans and coping with chronic health conditions and disability. Assisting individuals with processing their trauma and dealing with end-of-life is another area I have worked in. I am a firm believer in working with my patients to discover the “why” behind their behaviors and become empowered to develop the necessary coping skills and tools to overcome and adapt.

Additionally, I have provided individual, family, and group counseling services with upper elementary children up to senior citizens at end of life. As one of the newest team members of Counseling Associates of the Four States, my professional experience includes providing mental health and co-occurring therapy in various diverse settings, both in acute and long-term inpatient and outpatient settings.

For the last 40 years, the Four States area has been my home and where my wife and I have raised our four children. When I am not helping others to become the best version of themselves, my wife and I attempt to keep up with our three children still in the house and their various activities which at times seems to be a logistical game of Jenga. However, nothing beats snuggling with your kids, especially when they are little.