Derek is a Texas-native born and raised in Houston. He earned his Bachelor's degree from Baylor University. Following this, he attended Cox Business School at SMU before obtaining his Master’s in Biblical Counseling at Dallas Theological Seminary. During his time at DTS, he completed his master's internship at Dallas Life, a homeless recovery center, where he helped serve men and women of various ages and backgrounds. He has also worked with clients who have struggled with trauma, addiction, and depression. Additionally, he has served in many capacities in church settings with young adult males and adolescents via summer youth camps and leading various Bible studies through the years.

Derek utilizes different therapeutic techniques that will vary based on the needs of his client. He believes that as a client you have intrinsic value, and are worthy of someone who listens, cares, and understands you. Working with both adults and teenage young men, some of his areas of interests include: anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, perfectionism, abuse, and adjustment to difficult life situations.

During his time away from the office Derek enjoys golfing, playing basketball, watching movies, listening to live music, and cheering on the Baylor Bears.