“In the midst of winter, I found there was, within me, an invincible summer.” -Albert Camus

Derek received his MSW from Aurora University in 2021 and has worked as an outpatient psychotherapist with children, adolescents, and adults. Derek has experience with client populations struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship difficulties, neurodevelopmental conditions, life transitions, and identity struggles. Derek has used evidence-based treatments that are strengths-based and empowerment-focused, including DBT, family systems therapy, CBT, motivational interviewing, and psychodynamic approaches. Derek endeavors to make sure that his clinical practice is intersectional, neurodiversity-affirming, LGBTQIA+ positive, and trauma-informed.

Derek works with you to help you feel understood and empowered despite the challenges of your current circumstances. Derek is keenly aware of how situational factors can affect your mental health and behavioral choices and that meaningful changes in your life situation can make all the difference in achieving your goals. Even if you’re not sure where to start, Derek wants to help you find the right combination of skills, supports, and relationships to live an authentic life.