My story is woven from a long, hard journey of suffering, survival, resilience, and transformation. From a rich tapestry of Russian, Indigenous, and Irish ancestry, I was born into a world marked by generational trauma.

 

My early years, filled with pain and confusion, taught me the harsh realities of loss, disconnection, and feeling powerless against the onslaught of external chaos and internal trauma triggers that dictated the first two decades of my life. These pains consumed my family, leaving me as the sole survivor of four boys.

 

Yet, this crucible of adversity forged my resilience and the insights I now harness in my professional life. I was at the lowest point in my life, 25 years ago, when Restorative Justice (RJ) became the catalyst for my transformation. The RJ values of inclusion, dignity, connection, and contribution mirrored collective values of my heritage and reminded me that I matter; I have value to offer.

 

More profoundly, becoming a father changed my view of the world and my role in it - suddenly, I had responsibility for someone else who depended on me. And the consequences of my actions were no longer mine alone to bear. I became driven to be a good role model and provider for my daughter.

 

With these two drivers motivating me, I've since risen from the depths of desolation to build a career dedicated to guiding others through adversity, towards defining and achieving their own success.

 

After 20 years of advocacy and counselling in various agency positions, I am stepping forward to offer my services directly as a private coach, counsellor, and consultant. This shift is driven my my commitment to provide support that is not rigid or institutional in its approach but is personalized, tailored to your needs, and unhindered by bureaucratic obstacles.

 

I bring not only my professional expertise but a lifetime of learning from the intersection of pain and resilience in the context of culture and marginalization. My unique approach braids traditional wisdom with lived experiential insight and contemporary therapeutic practice, going beyond the Two-Eyed perspective. 

 

I'm deeply committed to social justice, inspired by the resilience and determination of my childhood hero, Underdog. This inspiration compels me to be a voice for those who need it most, advocating for understanding and change. 

 

I'm also deeply committed to family and friends, and building community. Although my family of origin is gone, I am a father and a grandfather and nothing brings me more joy than the wonder and antics of my grandchildren. I'm humble and proud to be in their lives and show them that transformation never ends.

 

If my story resonates with you, I invite you to connect. Let's rewrite your story into a narrative of strength, resilience, and success.

 

Let's talk. Start your journey. Transform your life.