You learn a lot about Brian Ede and his life’s journey in the two following quotes.
“Two roads diverged in a wood and I took the one less traveled by and that has made all the difference. “– Robert Frost
“Yes, there are two paths you can go by, but in the long run there’s still time to change the road you are on.” -Jimmy Page, Robert Plant
Brian grew up moving a lot and seeing many different places as his father was in the Army. Additionally, growing up in a Christian home had a huge influence on the development of his world view. But as is often the case, he was a rebellious teenager and was angry toward God. During his first three years of college, alcohol and drugs became a means of attempting to escape from painful emotions. Brian faced the fact his addiction was destroying him and blocking his path to achieving his life goals. God’s love was persistent even in his pain. Brian saw his need for a true Higher Power; God, the true source of strength and comfort. From here, life took a whole new direction. While attending a small Christian college in the Midwest, his Christian faith grew. Although he started out as a political science major, while taking some social work courses, he knew this was the profession where he belonged; this was the right path for him. God was leading him in a different direction.
After graduating with his bachelor of social work degree, Brian worked with teenagers in a residential setting, in independent living and at an alternative high school. He also worked as an in-home family counselor with families including children 4 years of age and up. Brian obtained his Master of Social Work degree from the University of Iowa (Go Hawkeyes!) and moved to Arizona where he honed his skills as a family therapist. His experience included being the executive director of a youth and family services shelter and ultimately he was able to return to his military roots and had the privilege of working with Veterans in Washington, D.C. for a number of years.
Brian has a compassionate and caring manner about him. He provides an understanding, non-judgmental environment to help facilitate emotionally healing. We don’t always make the right choice. Not every path is smooth or easy; many are unclear, difficult and even dangerous. There are times we need someone to walk with us and to help us along the path or perhaps to help us find a new direction. Having someone that understands because he’s been there makes all the difference in the world. In addition to working with couples and families, he is especially interested in working with men. He gets it. He understands the multitude of struggles with which men face. He sees his role as coming along side and teaching life and relational skills, including: developing problem solving skills, overcoming depression, reducing anxiety, having victory over addiction, growing through life development stages and recovering from the symptoms of trauma.
Brian is married with 3 children and a pug named Idgie. Brian is a licensed Clinical Social Work and provides Couples, Marriage, Family, Adolescent and Child Counseling.
He is a provider with a number of the major insurance panels. Brian is a vital member of our staff. Clients have come to really appreciate his warmth and wisdom. Please give Virginia Center for Family Relations a call at 540 885-3481. We are happy to answer any questions you might have.