His commitment to professional growth is evident, with over 30 hours of continuing education in diagnosing and treating problem gambling, and countless hours dedicated to providing telehealth counseling services. His specialized graduate coursework focused on gender/sexuality and chemical dependency, with traditional training in career counseling, psychopathology (diagnosis), psychopharmacology, personality disorders, and practical application of counseling theories.

Beyond the classroom, Zack has invested considerable time in self-directed learning, delving into areas such as working with marginalized populations, veterinary professionals, and a wide array of counseling theories, including cognitive behavioral, solution-focused, person-centered, trauma-informed care, and motivational interviewing. He's a true advocate of integrating geek/nerd culture into his practice and is always eager to expand his counseling toolbox to better serve diverse client concerns.

Zack's practical experience includes over four years working at outpatient mental health centers, where he provided treatment, assessment, and program development. He attained his Independent License in 2021, following the successful completion of over 4000 supervised field hours and a nationally recognized exam through the National Board for Certified Counselors. In October 2021, he took the leap to open his private practice, following his role as the interim head of an outpatient psychiatry department in a community mental health agency.

Zack wasn’t always a counselor. He had worked in several different fields before considering mental health counseling as a career. These include the classics, such as retail and food service, but he also has worked in construction, security, automotive, clerical and creative fields. This diverse work history helps him to understand the different stressors that careers can have and use this in his work with clients.

In June 2022, Zack received the Training Supervisor designation for his Ohio license and is on a mission to provide supervision to fellow counselors, reducing the education gap in working with transgender clients, neurodivergent individuals, and harm reduction practices for addiction. Notably, he dedicated himself to an intensive course in Fall 2022, becoming a certified EMDR therapist.

Zack's dedication extends beyond traditional counseling, with over four years of experience working with Employee Assistance Programs for both voluntary and mandatory clients. He has presented on his lived transgender experience, queer issues, and compassion fatigue.

An unyielding advocate, Zack played a pivotal role in policy changes benefiting LGBTQIA+ students and graduate students at his university, while serving on the Board of Advisors after graduation for his fraternity. He also volunteered for two years with the Cleveland Rape Crisis Center's Hotline, completing 40+ hours of crisis intervention training. He has spent countless hours advocating for more access to mental health services by calling and writing congress to expand the Medicare program to include licensed counselors and expansion of licenses to other states. These pursuits aim to reduce the barriers to care for all Americans. His strong belief in equity drives his commitment to fight against systems that oppress others. One of the driving philosophies in his private practice is to reduce client financial burden; offering reduced rates to a portion of his clients and fighting insurance plans to cover services for clients.

It's not just his professional journey that makes Zack exceptional; it's also his commitment to personal growth and self-care. He understands firsthand how mental health affects every aspect of life and makes it a priority in his own life, setting an example for his friends, partner, family, and clients.

Outside of his professional pursuits, Zack is a self-identified nerd with a love for games, spending perhaps a bit too much time on TikTok, and reading books about his interests. Traveling to new experiences with his partner of over 6 years is one of his greatest joys. The house is never truly quiet with their 4 guinea pigs and foster animals running around.

Above all, Zack prides himself on providing authentic and genuine care. If you're still considering whether he's the right fit for you, don't hesitate to reach out. You can give him a call, send an email, or even a text – he's here to support you on your journey towards mental well-being. Your peace of mind is his top priority.