About Pripo
Writing a bio is always an interesting endeavor. Do I tell you my experience as a counselor, speaker, workshop leader, podcast host with an expertise in the field of relationships and my educational/vocational background or let you see me as just another human being? Because all we are in a sense is a story. I'm just trying to live a good one.
In my experience of being in relationships whether with family, friends, clients, colleagues or even with a stranger (with an opportunity to have an authentic encounter), I know I have a choice, a choice to be reserved, fearful and distant… or present with curiosity, care and love. I like when I choose the latter, my life is more enriching, gratifying and magical (yes, a word that may raise an eyebrow or two coming from a psychotherapist but not from a human being open to the true awe of this world).
I am open to the honesty and vulnerability of what is coming through us. That is where the “juice” is. That is where my transformation, growth and intimacy is deeply experienced, the passion to be alive. This passion for me is cultivated through appreciation. Appreciation for people and circumstances that have touched me to my core, and without it I have a hard time making sense of my moments. Life is too precious and fragile.
I do want you to know a few more things about me though... I deeply love my wife Yvonne Rainbow, my son Zander, and my daughter in love Emma. I have a supportive and loving extended family and I am so fortunate I have authentic and nurturing friendships. I also love the work that I'm doing in the world, and yet… in an alternative reality world, I still wish I was a professional baseball player. Oh well, four out of five ain't bad.
Thanks for your interest and attention. For those of you that are interested in some of my work experience, education and training, you can read on...
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in private practice specializing in relationship issues working with individuals, couples, families and work groups. I earned a master's degree in counseling/psychology at Goddard College. I have worked with thousands of couples and individuals over the last 20+ years helping to improve their relationships while cultivating healthier communication and intimacy skills. Prior to becoming a psychotherapist, I was a project manager in Fortune 200 and 500 companies with emphasis in the Japanese sector. I dual majored in Japanese studies/language and Social Science at Michigan State University and lived in Japan for one and a half years.
Education and Relevant Training:
Goddard College - MA Degree in Psychology and Counseling 2005
Michigan State University - BA Degree in Social Science 1985
*Michigan State University Varsity Baseball 1981-1983
EMDR Institute - EMDR I and II level training 2012
Gestalt Awareness training - Esalen Institute, Big Sur, CA 1994-1996, 2006, 2010
EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique), Asheville, NC 2009
Family and Divorce Mediation Certification 2001
Esalen Massage Certification & Meditation training 1994-1996
Aoyama Language Academy, Japan Japanese Language Studies 1985-1987
