Therapeutic Philosophy
I believe that our psychological symptoms express our deeper needs. As a person-centered therapist, I work at the client's pace to help them understand these symptoms and discover ways to meet these deeper needs. I am interested in helping the individual contact their true Self, strengthen it, and bring it more fully into the world. Dreamwork, art, sandplay, and traditional talk therapy are some of the methods an individual can use to get in touch with the true Self. The therapeutic hour gives us the time and the space to listen to our inner callings. My goal is to empower the client to find ways to meet their needs, express their inner callings, and claim the life they've been dreaming of.
Clinical Experience
2002-Present: At-Risk Youth Mentor for Youth Eastside Services in Bellevue.
2004-2005: Intern Clinician at Jumping Mouse Children's Center in Port Townsend, WA. Provided Play and Sandtray Therapy to Children and Families.
2009-2012: Child, Adolescent, and Family Counselor at Sound Mental Health, the largest Mental Health Agency in Washington State. Provided therapeutic and case management services to at-risk youth and families in King County.
Educational Background & Credentials
In 2002, Jay graduated from Loyola University of Chicago with a B.A. in Philosophy and Minors in Psychology and English Literature. During his senior year, Jay was named Most Outstanding Senior in the Philosophy Department and a John F. Grant Scholar in Health Care Ethics.
In 2005, Jay graduated from Pacifica Graduate Institute with a M.A. in Counseling Psychology. His thesis, The Holy Spirit of the Child, focused on early childhood development and the effectiveness of treating children with Sandplay therapy.
In 2011, Jay became a Child Mental Health Specialist (CMHS).
In 2011, Jay became a Mental Health Professional (MHP).
In 2012, Jay became a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Washington state.
