Matt earned a Bachelor of Science degree in 2000 from Hyles-Anderson College and directly began his work as a children’s pastor in ministry. Over the next 20 years he fulfilled the roles of children’s director, youth director, and finally as senior pastor with a counseling focus in each ministry opportunity. In 2012, Matt earned a Bachelor of Arts degree followed by a Master’s of Divinity in Pastoral Ministry in 2016 from Great Plains Baptist University. Matt is a Certified Mental Health Coach and especially enjoys working with men to develop personally and thrive in relationships.

Born and raised in Salem, Ohio, Matt has made a full circle back to the Canton, Ohio area where he enjoys spending time with his three children and their beagle, Bailey, hunting, fishing, and shooting as well as playing the piano and guitar.

In addition to these pursuits, Matt is a Captain in the United States Army, Reserve Component serving our heroes as Chaplain specializing in relational skills training, crisis intervention counseling, and suicide prevention.

Christie received her Bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Akron and her Master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Ashland University Theological Seminary. She is Gottman and EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) Trained and constantly pursues continuing education through books, podcasts, workshops, and training.

Married for 29 years and a mom to four daughters, two bonus kids, and a couple of ‘fur’ babies, Christie spent many years raising children before returning to professional work.

A resident of the west side of Akron, Christie enjoys spending time with family, which can include anything from painting fingernails to hiking the Metroparks. She also enjoys restoring and repurposing home furnishings.

Jamie Dunlap joined the Married Life Counseling team as Intake Coordinator. She has a diverse background in marketing, team management, and customer relations.

Jamie is a local Copley gal and has been married 25 years to her high school sweetheart, Greg. Jamie & Greg have two spirited children who keep them very busy and sleep-deprived.

Jamie enjoys gardening, volunteering at the kids’ schools, interior decorating, reading to her children, family hikes, and cooking for gatherings with neighbors, family, and friends.