Pete Grossenbach- Student Intern

Pete is a student at Western Seminary in Portland, OR finishing up his MA in Counseling. He is available to see individuals and couples on Mondays via Zoom and Fridays in-person at the rate of $60/session. Because Pete is a pre-licensed counselor sessions with him are not reimbursable through insurance.

Meet Pete-

My Journey to Counseling

I began my path toward counseling while participating in a men’s support group in my local church.  As we faced life’s most difficult challenges together, powerful healing happened when we trusted one another with our hidden stories and received true connection and compassion in return. Participating in and later leading these groups using Pure Desire Ministries’ curriculum—built on evidence-based clinical practices—ignited my passion for relational healing.

These experiences taught me that none of us must carry our past alone. While my Christian faith reminds me that my past does not define my identity, I learned that we cannot simply move on from what we have not yet understood. I witnessed the transformative power of proven therapeutic tools when used within a trusting, compassionate relationship.

Education and Clinical Approach

My desire to facilitate this kind of healing led me to formal clinical training. My background in the Air Force was the foundation of my early higher education; I graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy in 2001 with a bachelor’s in physics, later earning a Master of Science in International Relations through Troy University in 2009.  I returned to graduate studies with a certificate in Christian Studies at Fuller Seminary in 2022, focusing on biblical literature and pastoral care before entering Western Seminary’s MA in Counseling program in 2023. Beyond core clinical training, my advanced coursework includes specialized study in adventure therapy and positive psychology.

In my practice, I draw from the Adlerian and psychodynamic traditions while deeply valuing existential approaches pioneered by figures like Viktor Frankl. Because meaningful work requires a foundation of emotional safety, I utilize Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) techniques grounded in attachment theory to create a secure base for clients. For couples, I utilize Gottman tools and draw on Imago Relationship Therapy to rebuild connection and trust.

Beyond the Counseling Room

In my personal life, I am blessed to be in my 20th year of marriage to my lovely wife. We live in University Place, Washington, where we raise our two teenage boys, two cats, and tend a home garden. I love staying active outdoors through hiking, fishing with my boys, running, swimming, and paddle sports. After decades of global travel as an Air Force pilot, I now thoroughly enjoy trading long trips for simply finding a scenic campsite in the Pacific Northwest.