Michael has been leading groups and workshops in the San Francisco bay area focused on developing the healthy masculine for younger and older men for over fifteen years. He is a college educator, counselor and mentor with a background in psychology, spirituality & social justice. He brings in archetypal theory, mythology, poetry and ritual to creatively support men on their journey toward growth, healing, and a life lived with deeper meaning and purpose. Michael is passionate about helping men of all backgrounds learn how to embody their masculinity in ways that are both self-empowering and of service to their families, communities and the larger world. As a group facilitator, he is gifted in communicating with empathy, honesty and respect in order to build trust and belonging. This helps men connect more deeply, experience greater vulnerability, work through difficult life experiences and pursue their goals and dreams. He's participated in the same men’s group for over twenty years and knows first-hand the personal growth and deep transformation that this mutually supportive and honest work can bring. He has a Masters degree in counseling from Indiana University, a doctorate degree from the California Institute of Integral Studies in East-West Psychology and is currently studying to become an inter-faith Chaplain. Michael is the father of a seven-year-old daughter and an active uncle in the lives of his four nieces. He’s also a former collegiate & professional athlete, having lived and played in Italy for many years.