According to the everyday wisdom of Zen, there is nothing more precious than honest conversation and authenticity between human beings. Regardless of politics, past ills, or the bullshit, we are in this together. This connection is never perfect, but it is all we’ve got—and it is rare. Remember that when you connect with a new person who lights a spark in your heart. As a counselor and Zen teacher, sharing your journey is an honor and profoundly sacred.

I was born in New England and come from a modest and sadly rough family background. Ordinary on the outside, not so great on the inside. I was blessed with an excellent education early in Jesuit and private schools. I was also a decent athlete. I played hockey, football, lacrosse, and rowed crew. I continued my education at Northeastern University in Boston and the University of London, Goldsmiths, where I was introduced to Eastern Philosophy and Consciousness. After kicking around a bit (building decks in Colorado and studying Buddhism and yoga), I went to law school for a stint. I moved to Los Angeles to try my hand at screenwriting, and eventually, I pursued a corporate strategy career for over two decades. In my mid-forties, I was Chief of Staff for an International fund and a university-level lecturer. I’ve studied at Edinburgh University, Harvard University, and Harvard Medical School’s continuing ed programs.

You can read more about my journey and counseling here and here.

Nine bows, as we say in our practice.