How did you become interested in this line of work? (tell us a little bit about your background)

In 1999 I made a conscious decision to heal the impact stress was having on my life and relationships. Through experiencing teachers, healers and committing to my own inner work I created a system to quickly surface and heal the root issues fueling my stress. In 2001 I began facilitating this work in 1-on-1 sessions and workshops. In 2008, I founded Stress Is Gone to further share this work.

Please share a wellness tip or word of advice that relates to the workshop you will be presenting.

I recommend practicing Stress Stopper Breathwork as you fall asleep and whenever you feel stressed during the day. First, touch the tension in your body. Usually in the chest, abdomen, or solar plexus. Second, start breathing deep and slow. And third, once per breath silently say, “I’m okay”. Repeat these steps together until all the tension melts away. It usually takes 60-seconds to activate the body’s relaxation response but after a month of practice you will have the muscle memory to stop stress in seconds. You will also become very in tune with your body.

What or who inspires you? (This could be anything from your mentor to your favorite quote)

What really inspires me is the look on a client’s face when they feel free. I love hearing their words, how the explain it, because that’s what it was for me.

What personal or professional accomplishments are you most proud of?

Some of the accomplishments I hold dear to heart include writing a PTSD workbook for veterans and dedicating it to my father, a veteran and FDNY Firefighter who passed in 2014. As well as becoming certified by both the American Institute of Stress and the Amercian Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress. But what fills me up inside is being a loving husband and father, who has the honor to share this work.