Meet Luke: Inspired by Therapy, Committed to Helping Others Heal
Luke is a counselor-in-training who is currently pursuing his Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Liberty University. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Counseling and Human Services from Stevenson University in 2022 and is now completing his internship at Grey Matter as part of his graduate program, a place he says immediately felt like the right fit. “Grey Matter felt like the right fit because its mission and values align with my strong desire to provide compassionate, client-centered care.”
Finding His Path to Counseling
Luke’s passion for counseling began with a meaningful personal experience during his freshman year of high school. At that time, he began working with a therapist, which was an experience that would become foundational in shaping his path. “I first found my desire to counsel others when I met my own therapist during my freshman year,” he shares. “That powerful therapeutic relationship was foundational; it helped me develop effective coping skills for my personal toolbox to navigate everyday challenges.”
That experience left a lasting impact and ultimately inspired Luke to pursue a career in counseling. “I was so impacted by that experience that I committed myself to providing that same therapeutic environment and ‘toolbox’ for my own clients,” he says.
A Collaborative, Empowering Approach
In his work, Luke emphasizes self-empowerment and collaboration. He focuses on creating a safe, empathetic space where clients feel comfortable sharing their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. His integrative approach blends evidence-based practices including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), with a person-centered and strengths-based perspective. Luke believes that a strong therapeutic relationship is the most important element for facilitating meaningful growth and healing.
When clients first meet Luke, he hopes they feel supported from the start. “When clients first meet me, I hope they feel welcomed, supported, and safe,” he says. He views the initial session as a chance to build connection and understanding, adding, “My goal is for every client to feel understood and hopeful about the potential for growth and healing.” Luke also encourages clients not to settle in therapy, believing that “the therapeutic relationship should feel safe, supportive, and make you eager to return as you continue to grow.”
Who Luke Works With
Luke works primarily with adults, young adults, and adolescents and supports clients navigating life transitions, relationship challenges, anxiety, depression, athlete identity, and work-life balance concerns. He also brings a unique perspective from his experience running his own creative media company, which gives him firsthand insight into professional demands and the importance of personal well-being. As a certified life coach, Luke can also offer structured, goal-oriented support and accountability.
For Luke, the most rewarding part of his work is witnessing growth unfold in real time. “The most rewarding part of my work is witnessing clients gain confidence and develop coping skills that help them move through life with greater resilience,” he shares. He looks forward to working with clients who are seeking balance, clarity, and practical tools in an environment where they feel truly heard and empowered.
Interested in working with Luke? Book a free consultation to see if you and he are a good fit.