Meet your Counselor

Chris’s professional and personal journey has been shaped by service, leadership, resilience, and a deep commitment to helping others navigate adversity. His path began in the United States Marine Corps, where he served as a Military Police Sergeant and K9 handler, and combat veteran during the Iraq War. The Marine Corps instilled in him the values of discipline, courage, accountability, and mission-focused leadership. Principles that continue to guide his work today. His military experience also provided firsthand insight into the psychological demands placed on those who serve in high-stress, high-risk environments.

Following his military service, Chris dedicated over a dozen years to law enforcement as a Deputy Sheriff, where he worked in patrol division, training division, field training, and K9 operations. Throughout his law enforcement career, he developed extensive experience in crisis response, leadership, tactical operations, and the realities of cumulative occupational stress. These years reinforced both the strengths and vulnerabilities inherent in first responder culture, and deepened his passion for supporting military personnel, first responders, and their families through the unique challenges they face. His lived experience allows him to connect authentically with individuals from these communities, understanding both the operational mindset and the emotional toll that often extends into relationships, parenting, and personal identity.

In addition to his military and law enforcement background, Chris founded and operated Invictus Defense Academy, where he served as owner and chief instructor. Through Invictus, he trained individuals in self-defense, competitive MMA and Muay Thai, combative disciplines, and personal protection while emphasizing confidence, discipline, and mental fortitude. His extensive background in combat sports, including Muay Thai, boxing, jiu-jitsu, and self-defense coaching, has further shaped his philosophy that true strength is best balanced by humility, emotional regulation, and personal mastery.

Today, Chris brings this diverse foundation into his role as an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Studies , a Master’s degree in Psychology with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy, and is currently pursuing his Doctorate of Psychology with a focus on Mental Performance Optimization. His work specializes in men’s mental health, couples counseling, first responder and veteran mental health, and helping clients cultivate resilience, healthier relationships, and a more integrated sense of self. His therapeutic approach blends evidence-based clinical practices with practical life experience, creating a counseling environment that is direct, compassionate, and grounded in both strength and healing.

Outside of his professional work, Chris remains deeply committed to personal growth, family, and lifelong learning. He is passionate about physical fitness and continues to train in combat sports, including Muay Thai, boxing, jiu-jitsu, and self-defense. He enjoys hiking, shooting, film, and studying philosophy, psychology, theology, and biographies of historically significant figures. Above all, Chris values time with his family and takes pride in coaching combat sports alongside his son. Passing down not only practical skills, but also the values of discipline, confidence, and integrity.

Chris’s life and work reflect the philosophy at the heart of Warrior Monk Mental Performance & Counseling: the integration of disciplined strength, emotional intelligence, resilience, and compassionate leadership. His mission is to help others heal, grow, and lead more grounded, purposeful lives—whether in their personal struggles, relationships, or service to others.