Meet the Team
Meet VIP Counseling
Dean Piovesan, LCPC
Dean is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the State of Idaho.
He graduated with a Master of Science in Professional Counseling from Grand Canyon University. Dean sharpened his skills through experience serving others as a director of alternative education programs for at-risk students, an equine specialist using horses and the Eagala method for clients suffering from trauma, and clinical work in community health agencies. Throughout his career, he has continued to train and grow to bring the best tools and knowledge to help his clients. Dean started VIP Counseling in 2020 to better serve the growing mental health needs of Northern Idaho.
Growing up in a foreign country and traveling extensively in the United States has provided Dean with a unique perspective on people and the stories they share. He understands that each person is an individual with a different lived experience, yet we are all connected by a deep need to love and be loved.
Dean values friendship and believes healthy relationships are the bedrock of a healthy mind, body, and soul. Whether fishing the Coeur d’Alene River, riding motorcycles, or hiking in the woods, he cherishes it most when he is with people he loves. He has been married to his best friend for thirty years with whom he shared the joy of raising a daughter and son. He is now looking forward to being part of his grandchildren’s best memories.
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Russ Smyth, Pastoral Counselor
Russ is an ordained minister with over 40 years of vocational ministry experience.
His extensive ministry experience includes teaching, leading short-term mission trips, serving as Executive Director for GoodSeed Int’l, connecting churches with missionaries and teaching materials, and serving on the board of directors for several non-profits across the world. He is currently the General Secretary of Anchored International with an international team of missionaries dedicated to providing people with foundations in Biblical knowledge and understanding. He earned his BA in Intercultural Studies from NTM. Russ is currently working towards his Pastoral Counselor certification with the Association of Biblically Certified Counselors.
Growing up in a foreign country and extensive traveling across the United States and around the world has given Russ an appreciation for different cultures and belief systems that affect our ability to relate to God.
Russ enjoys a variety of hobbies and outdoor adventures. He values time with family and friends, and serving people in the community.
Dr. Jonathan Whiting, PsyD
Dr. Jonathan is a licensed Psychologist with the State of Idaho.
He graduated with a doctorate in Counseling Psychology from Northwest University. He
grew up in the Coeur d’Alene area and has a heart to see the people of North Idaho
flourish. The root word in "psychology" is derived from the Greek word for "soul," and
thus psychology can be translated as "the study of the soul." As a Christian, Jonathan’s
motivation to work as a therapist stems from his belief that human beings possess a
soul, are intrinsically valuable, loved by God, and created in His image. He works with
people to help them find meaning in their lives, heal from past traumas, learn to manage
difficult emotions in effective ways, and develop a vision for their life.
Jonathan and his wife have a young daughter, and a beagle named Oliver. During his
free time, he enjoys fly fishing the beautiful rivers of North Idaho and spending time in
the mountains.
Jennifer Moore, Intern
Jennifer is an Intern in the process of completing her Master’s Degree in Marriage and
Family Therapy with Hope International University.
Jennifer is a graduate of the University of Idaho and is a graduate student of Hope
International University working towards becoming a licensed therapist. She has
extensive personal experience and knowledge of Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD)
as well as the many other challenges that often accompany adoption including early
childhood trauma and neglect. She will be working with VIP Counseling this year for her
internship and will be working under the supervision of Dean Piovesan, LCPC.
Jennifer is a pastor’s wife and a mother to 8 children, 3 biological & 5 adopted, and
recently became a new grandparent! She believes in walking alongside people without
judgement as they seek healing and hope.
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With VIP Counseling, your mental health is in trusted hands.
At VIP Counseling, we believe that everyone deserves a safe space to explore their thoughts and feelings. Our dedicated team of experienced professionals is committed to providing personalized support tailored to your unique journey. Together, we’ll navigate challenges and foster resilience, empowering you to achieve a brighter, healthier future.