Not Your Average Counseling

My Heart for This Work

So much of what weighs us down isn’t just the pain we’ve experienced—but the stories we’ve come to believe about ourselves because of it.

Stories shaped by shame, silence, guilt, or the sense that we’re somehow not enough. Stories passed down through generations—of survival, not wholeness. My heart is to walk with people as they begin to see those stories in a new light: through the lens of grace, through the transforming love of Jesus. Not as a quick fix or religious veneer, but as a lived reality where even the most painful chapters can be redeemed and re-authored.

I believe healing begins in the places we were never allowed to be honest. The parts of us we were told were too broken, too much, or somehow beyond repair. My calling is to create sacred space for people to speak what they’ve never said aloud—to tell the truth without fear—and to bring light into places long kept in shadow. Not to expose, but to free.

And this freedom? It doesn’t come from striving, or fixing, or becoming stronger. It comes from surrender. From walking in step with the Holy Spirit, even when we feel weak, especially when we feel weak. Our weakness is not something to fear or hide—it’s a doorway. A quiet, trembling invitation to encounter the power of Christ in a way that’s real, personal, and transformative.

Jesus doesn’t meet us at the polished surface of our lives. He meets us in the raw, the hidden, the misunderstood parts we’d rather skip over. And while the way forward may feel uncertain or uncomfortable, I believe this is where abundant life begins—not in pretending to have it all together, but in courageously letting go of what no longer serves us and stepping into the newness He offers.

This work isn’t about symptom management. It’s about transformation. It’s about learning to live differently—not because we’ve finally gotten it right, but because we’ve been met by the grace of Jesus right where we are. Because His Spirit empowers us to become whole in ways we never could on our own.

If you’re ready to explore the parts of your life that feel too heavy to carry alone, I’m here—not with all the answers, but with an open heart and steady presence. Together, we’ll do the sacred work of rewriting your story with truth, grace, and the courage that comes from walking with Jesus.
– Derek

Professional Credentials

I am the founder of Brave Life Pastoral Counseling, LLC, based in Springfield, Ohio, where I serve individuals and couples seeking both clinical and faith-informed care.

Education & Training:

  • Master of Arts in Pastoral Counseling (2016) – Liberty University
  • Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (2012) – Wittenberg University

Certifications & Credentials:

  • Board Certified Christian Counselor (2017–Present) – through the Board of Christian Professional and Pastoral Counselors, in association with the American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC)
  • Certified Trauma Professional (2022–Present) – Evergreen Certifications
  • Certified Grief-Informed Professional (2023–Present) – Evergreen Certifications

Ministry & Pastoral Role:

I’m an ordained minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and currently serve as a church elder and member of the senior pastoral staff at The Bridge Church in Springfield, Ohio.

Have a Question?

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