“John has a God given gift in guiding individuals to learn more about themselves, past and present. Through his Men’s Group I have learned how to process that information without going crazy! I am learning who I REALLY am… my likes, wants and desires. This isn’t as easy as you might think. There is no question that I now understand my Self much better. I am a better person, husband, lover, father, boss, neighbor and friend. Just ask my wife!” – S.B., Franklin, Tennessee
Psychospiritual Therapy
This approach combines the best of psychological and spiritual tools and principles to promote emotional and relational healing that is holistic and sustainable. Psychological work focuses on what has gone wrong in a person’s life, while spiritual work focuses on what is intrinsically right in the person. Both are essential for healing to take place. My primary psychological theory is psychodynamic, while my primary spiritual philosophy is Contemplative and Christian. Together they focus on examining the Real Self that is at the core of all people.
Adult Psychotherapy
My primary approach with individuals is psychodynamic. This means that through investigating the wounds in one’s past (family of origin) the needed awareness is discovered to understand why the current issues in life are so emotionally painful and create obstacles for healthy personal growth.
Marital Therapy
My primary approach in working with couples is both psychodynamic and systemic. After understanding each others past, and how it is impacting the present, the possibility for honest communication can take place. The couple sessions become a laboratory where feelings can be expressed in a way that is vulnerable, so that real intimacy can develop.
Executive Coaching
My style of coaching executives is personal, directive and dynamic. Creating balance between one’s career and personal life is my definition of success. The sessions are done both in person and by phone. Meeting at least once with me in person is the requirement to begin all coaching relationships.
Clinical Supervision
I am an Approved Supervisor with the AAMFT. This certifies me to give supervision to those working towards the LMFT and LPC licensure in Tennessee. My approach is to not only focus on the skills needed to work with counseling clientsbut also to give significant attention to the personal issues of the therapist that are essential for development.
Group Therapy
This is a dynamic approach to therapy where both the therapist and group members help each other by affirming and confronting. This is a process group rather than a 12 Step group. Most groups run for 10 weeks and consist of 6-8 members. I currently run both a Men’s Therapy Group and Spiritual Direction Group on a weekly basis.