Hey There, I’m Clay

I have walked many paths in life, at times through darkness, and found my way to the other side. Wanderlust, passion and a strong sense of curiosity has brought my from executive offices on Michigan Ave in Chicago to living out of a backpack in South America. From a suit and tie to a chefs coat. From small business ownership to treatment centers, hospitals and clinical mental health. From addiction and a life on the brink to recovery and a life lived intentionally.

My personal journey and challenges have deeply informed my approach to therapy and what is possible if we simply put in the work. These journeys have brought me here—to help others, to guide others, and to walk the darkest parts with you.

My experience

  • I’ve worked in a range of treatment settings, from intensive outpatient programs to inpatient psychiatric and substance use treatment, guiding people through some of life’s toughest moments. I’ve developed group therapy programs from the ground up, partnered with healthcare teams to create seamless care plans, and helped individuals and families navigate everything from substance use to complex mental health needs. My background includes supporting clients at every stage of their journey.

  • About me:

    I spent years in the restaurant world, designing menus, building brands, and managing kitchens from the ground up. That journey included rising from prep cook to executive leadership in bustling, high-volume operations, restaurant ownership, collaborating with local farmers on farm-to-table dinners, and eventually serving on the board of a nonprofit farm to champion sustainable, equitable agriculture. Along the way, I learned that food is more than nourishment, it is an act of self love. This passion now informs my therapeutic approach and what it means to nourish both body and soul.

  • I’ve been cultivating food for over fourteen years, from tiny backyards to partnering with small farms as an executive chef and restaurant owner. During that time, I also served on the board of Front Line Farms, a grassroots organization that champions food sovereignty, advocacy, and sustainable farming practices. For me, growing my own food isn’t just about nourishment—it's been a source of self-worth, a calming routine amid everyday stress, and a tangible way to witness transformation. Gardening has shown me how nurturing even a small plot of land can help us reconnect with ourselves, find purpose, and discover purpose through Mind, Body & Soil. Now, I bring these insights into my therapeutic work, blending horticultural practices with emotional healing through a holistic, whole-person approach.

  • I’m not a personal trainer or fitness expert—just an everyday person with a busy, often stressful life who relies on exercise and movement to support my mental health, manage stress, and boost self-esteem. Over time, I’ve discovered how to make movement fit into my life, rather than reorganizing my entire day around a workout. Whether it’s powerlifting, Olympic weightlifting, hiking, kettlebell workouts in my garage, or just walking the dogs, staying active has profoundly shaped my journey. I believe it can do the same for you.

  • I am currently undergoing training at https://www.skylightpsychedelics.com to integrate Ketamine-Assisted Therapy into my practice as well as psychedelic therapy preparation and integration.

    STAY TUNED!

  • When I’m not in session, I’m focused on creating a quality existence by investing in what truly matters: deepening my relationships with family and friends, growing my own food, and caring for animals that bring both nourishment and joy. I challenge my body and mind every day, connect with nature, and cultivate self-sufficiency—even harvesting my own meat. To me, everything of real value demands time, hard work, and a willingness to be present in the world around us.

My values

I believe that change is available to all those who seek it. Discomfort can be a teacher—fertile ground for growth rather than an enemy—and that the mind, body, and consciousness are inextricably linked. By influencing one, we influence them all.

I’ve had the privilege of witnessing countless transformations—lives reclaimed from the brink of death, addiction, and debilitating mental health struggles. I believe that change is the fundamental substrate of our universe.

  • Authenticity

  • Curiosity

  • Growth

  • Purpose

Let’s get social

Clay@oldpine-co.com

Get in touch