How did I get into this career?

I think a lot of it started with curiosity about people. I’ve always been interested in what makes people who they are, how their relationships shape them, and why we sometimes find ourselves repeating patterns even when we know they aren’t working. Over time, that curiosity became more relational. I found that I really valued having meaningful conversations, hearing people’s stories, and creating space where someone could feel understood without feeling judged or rushed.

Counseling felt like a natural fit because it allows me to combine that curiosity with genuine connection and help people better understand themselves, their relationships, and the experiences that have shaped them. That eventually led me to pursue a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Richmont Graduate University and ultimately to the work I do now at Atlanta Wellness Collective.

What is my favorite thing about counseling?

My favorite part of counseling is watching someone begin to understand themselves differently. There are moments in therapy when something finally connects, when a client recognizes where a pattern came from, understands why they react the way they do, or realizes they don’t have to continue living the same way they always have. I love getting to be present for those moments.

I also really value the relationship that develops in counseling. There is something meaningful about creating a space where someone doesn’t have to perform, have the right answer, or pretend they have everything figured out. I get to support clients, but I also get to challenge them when needed. That combination of feeling understood while also being encouraged toward growth is probably my favorite part of the work.

What do I like to do when I’m not at Atlanta Wellness Collective?

When I’m not at Atlanta Wellness Collective, I’m usually doing something that helps me recharge and enjoy life outside of work. I love movies and can easily get pulled into a good film or a conversation about what made it great or what could have been better. I also enjoy hitting the gym, playing pickleball, staying active, and traveling and exploring nature.

More than anything, though, I value quality time with my wife and friends. Whether we’re going out, watching a movie, playing something together, or just hanging out, being around the people I care about is a big part of how I stay grounded.

What do I hope for my clients?

More than anything, I hope my clients leave therapy knowing themselves better and feeling more comfortable being who they are. I want them to recognize that their value is inherent and not something they have to earn through achievement, success, relationships, or getting everything right.

So many people walk through life believing their worth depends on what they accomplish, how others see them, or whether they have failed. I hope therapy helps clients begin to see the value of who they already are. I also hope they discover a deeper sense of purpose, something that gives direction to their growth and helps them become the person they want to be.

My goal isn’t for clients to never experience anxiety, shame, hurt, or uncertainty. It’s for those things to have less control over them. I hope clients develop stronger relationships, communicate more honestly, understand their emotions without being overwhelmed by them, and build a stronger foundation within themselves. Ultimately, I want them to leave counseling with greater clarity about who they are, what matters to them, and what is worth moving toward.

Request an appointment with Ian via telehealth or in person at our Marietta office.

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