My name is Ivan, and the journey to creating Wild Path Counseling started with a deep understanding of the pressing need for mental health services—especially for men. In 2020, I graduated with a degree in Psychology during the height of the pandemic. Like many others, the pandemic brought unprecedented challenges, and I soon found myself working at a dual diagnosis center, where I focused on mental health and substance abuse treatment. I also answered the Mental Health Crisis line, and it was here that I truly began to understand the depth of the mental health crisis men were facing.

While answering calls on the crisis line, I quickly noticed a recurring theme: most of the men who called, especially those in crisis, simply needed someone to talk to. They were often struggling with feelings of isolation, stress, and confusion, yet many of them couldn’t access the mental health services they desperately needed. The reasons varied—some lacked insurance, others couldn’t afford the high costs of therapy, and some just didn’t know where to turn. I realized how many men, in particular, were falling through the cracks of our healthcare system. The lack of services and the stigma surrounding mental health left these men feeling unheard, unsupported, and alone.

During this time, I also became acutely aware of the devastating suicide rates among men. Men are nearly four times more likely to die by suicide than women, with one man taking his life every 7 hours in the U.S. This fact, combined with my experience at the crisis center, drove me to take action. It was clear to me that men needed a space to express themselves, receive support, and heal—something that was currently lacking in our communities.

Before my career in psychology, I worked as a Park Ranger in the San Bernardino National Forest from 2014 to 2017, and later as a Tribal Park Ranger from 2023 to 2024. During these years, I saw firsthand the profound healing power of nature. Nature provides us with the space to reflect deeply, disconnect from the noise of the world, and reconnect with ourselves. It also allows us the opportunity to become physically stronger, which is a vital part of overall well-being. It became clear to me that combining the power of nature with mental health support could create a unique space for healing and growth.

With all of this in mind, I founded Wild Path Counseling in 2025. My goal is to reduce the mental health stigma that keeps so many men from seeking help, and to provide a space where men can heal—emotionally, mentally, and physically.

To further this mission, I also founded The Brotherhood Fund. This fund accepts donations that go directly toward providing free services to men who might not otherwise be able to afford therapy. It's a way for us to ensure that every man, regardless of his financial situation, can access the mental health support he needs.

Currently, I serve the Inland Empire area, but custom hikes in Orange County and Los Angeles County are available upon request. I’m here to offer the support that is desperately needed—a space for men to express themselves, reflect, and grow stronger in mind and body. I believe that together, we can break the stigma and build a healthier, more connected future for men.

Thank you for being a part of this journey. Let’s walk this path together and reclaim our strength, clarity, and peace.