Marriage, Relationship, Pre-marital and Individual Counseling • Executive Director • Board Member
Love Factor Newman Lake, WA
Matthew is deeply passionate about empowering individuals to discover and embrace their true identities. When someone discovers their true identity, they are able to push into true relationships as a powerful person. Matthew’s main focus at The Love Factor is to help reconnect and repair relationships, specifically marriages. Matthew has successfully studied Christian Leadership and Organizational Development at Alphacrucis College in Sydney, Australia. He has also studied Psychology at Colorado Christian University. He has recently finished his Doctorate in Clinical Pastoral Counseling and he is also a Certified Master Life Coach. Matthew has successfully helped restore hundreds of marriages, developed and lead worship teams, assisted in successful reorganizations of churches, facilitated the launching of small businesses; and consulted on strategic revenue growth, partnerships, relationships, and marketing for major fortune 500 companies. Each week he also donates his time and expertise to help support the Chaplaincy | Patient Spiritual Care Program at Kootenai Medical Center.
Matthew is an ordained Pastor through Firestarters Ministries. He and his wife Karissa have been married since October 2008. They have three amazing boys and two precious girls! Together they are also active in their local church, Heart of the City Church, in Coeur d’Alene.
Relationship, Pre-marital, and Individual Counseling
Love Factor Coeur d’ Alene, ID
Charles was born and raised to a hard-working family in Southern Idaho. He started working on his Uncle’s dairy farm at age 13 and learned early how to be responsible and the value of dependability. He served two years in the United States Navy and has worked in the food and beverage industry for 11 years. He carries a deep passion for counseling with a focus on personal break throughs and self-discovery/identity. He believes his passion comes from God’s vocational call on his life. Starting with Saddleback Church, he has the privilege of counseling many individuals for a variety of different personal issues. He is currently pursuing his bacherlor’s degree in psychology through Colorado Christian University.
Charles and his wife Ricki live in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. He has two amazing children which are one of the highest priorities for him. He actively attends Real Life Ministries in Post Falls and is also involved with other ministries within his local church as well. He enjoys the outdoors and being active, especially being able to share those enjoyments with his kids.
Marriage & Relationship, Pre-marital, and Individual Counseling
Love Factor Coeur d’ Alene, ID
Kerry’s passion is to see healthy marriages. Marriages where wounded hearts are healed, hope is restored and the relationship, through Christ, becomes all that God intended. He believes that people need a safe, non-judgmental, grace-filled place to share their stories – a place where they can be loved back to life and learn to thrive in their true identity in Christ. As a young man, Kerry worked as a hairdresser in Scottsdale, AZ, where he learned to develop rapport with people from all walks of life. He went through a painful divorce which fostered a life-long desire to help himself and others build healthy, supportive, joyful and lasting relationships. In 1989, Kerry married Teresa and became a father to her four sons. They moved to North Idaho and ran a successful small business for 22 years while also serving as lay ministers and receiving training in biblical counseling. In 2011 Kerry and Teresa joined Grace Christian Fellowship where they grew into the lead pastor’s position. Kerry pursued his Master’s in Christian Therapy which he accomplished in 2016 at 68 years of age. He often says, “Don’t let age be an excuse (or anything else! LOL)” and is now considering pursuing his doctoral degree.
Kerry and his wife, Teresa, live in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Teresa also works at The Love Factor’s Newman Lake location as a family and parenting counselor. Together they love to host gatherings with their kids, 6 wonderful grandkids, friends and their little Yorkie, Barley.
Relationship, Pre-marital, Marriage, and Family Counseling
Love Factor Newman Lake, WA
Dave has had over three decades of walking along side and counseling countless individuals, couples, and families. Dave attended Southwestern Bible College and later graduated from Western Baptist Seminary. Dave was raised in Phoenix, Arizona while Sheila, his wife, grew up in nearby Spokane. The two fell in love while attending Southwestern Bible College. Dave was raised in Phoenix, Arizona while Sheila, his wife, grew up in nearby Spokane. Dave started in the ministry as a youth pastor in 1975 in Manchester, Iowa. After awhile he was then called to a church in Spokane, WA serving again as a youth pastor. Later, he accepted the Sr. Pastor’s position at a local fellowship in Sunnyside, WA which began preparing him for the next chapter of his life by becoming the founding Pastor of New Hope Community Church (NHCC) in Hermiston, OR. Dave and Shelia continued their commitment to God and one another by serving NHCC for 30 years.After 45 years of successful pastoral ministry, Dave and Sheila felt a call on their lives to relocate one last time from Hermiston, OR to the beautiful Coeur d’Alene area.
Dave and Shelia have been married for 48 years. They have a daughter and a son, both of whom live in the Pacific Northwest. They are grandparents to three granddaughters. In their free time; they enjoy spoiling the three girls, finding new & interesting restaurants, reading, and exploring the surrounding areas of northern Idaho. With decades of counseling experience and pastoral ministry, Dave brings a vast wealth of both real and practical life experience. Dave is ordained by the Conservative Baptist Association.
Marriage, Couples, and Pre-marital Counseling
Love Factor Newman Lake, WA
Kevin’s vision for life is to engage, equip, and empower people into deep, meaningful relationships with God and each other. Growing up in a family of faith as well as the worlds of music and athletics, consistently exposed him to the importance of relational dynamics, which always inspired him to build real bonds with those in his life and help others do the same. Kevin believes in the perspective of being a lifelong learner—that there is always something new to learn if one can keep their mind open and soul humble to learning and growing as a person. He studied communications and ministry at George Fox College and earned a Business degree from the University of Phoenix. He received a Certificate of Commission in Ministry and became a licensed Minister through World Christianship Ministries in 2013. Kevin is a published author with plans to continue writing to inspire current and future generations with the significance of authentic relationships and living a life of meaning and purpose.
Kevin has been happily married to his wife, Crystal, since 1996, and they live in beautiful Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Together, they believe in the priority and value of family and have two amazing adult sons, a delightful daughter-in-law, and two energetic grand dogs. They attend The Cause Church in Coeur d’Alene, enjoy playing card and board games, listening to music and going to concerts, getting out in nature, spending time with family and friends, and vacationing on both the west and east U.S. coastlines.
Nathan grew up just east of Seattle. He has successfully completed his education, and became a graduate of the world-renown BSSM at Bethel Church in Redding, CA. Over the past 20 years he has traveled to many countries; supporting, serving and working for counseling and ministry organizations. His academic education, work experience, and life situations has enabled and empowered him to develop a deep level of compassion, understanding, and practical knowledge for his clients. At age 7, Nathan started to believe a lie that he was worthless. Shortly after his negative self-belief started, he attempted to end his life to escape his unprecedented emotional pain.
After his suicidal attempt, his self hatred grew deeper which led to depression, addiction, isolation, loss of vision, and any hope. Because of God and his personal victory in life, he has been able to impact and help change countless lives. Nathan’s passion is to equip and empower his clients to reach a level of true freedom, purpose, and identity. Nathan has 4 siblings and 12 nieces and nephews. He currently attends and serves at The Cause church located in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.
Mark is the son of a locally prominent Atlanta area businessman, the late Roy S. Thompson, who founded a church that still exists to this day (St. James United Methodist). Mark obtained his BA in Philosophy at Hampden Sydney College in Virginia, (one of the nation’s top fifty institutions of higher learning), and where he was an honors student. Later, Mark received a full scholarship for a Master of Science degree at the Kettering Institute, the research division of the University of Cincinnati Medical College, graduating in 1992. He is both a Mensa and a Phi Theta Kappa.
Mark received the gospel in the 1990’s and has been a student of the Bible for 26 years. He has led adult bible studies in nondenominational and Baptist churches, and has since been involved in middle school ministry. Mark is a member of Real Life Ministries in Post Falls Idaho, and attends bible study twice weekly at North Country Chapel, also in Post Falls. Additionally, Mark is currently pursuing a PhD degree in Biblical Counseling at Louisiana Baptist University via distance learning. He currently is researching the origins, medical, social, and spiritual, of trauma and depression in teens.
Family and Parenting Counseling
Love Factor Newman Lake, WA
Teresa is passionate about helping parents and their kids to develop a steadfast love relationship that will anchor them throughout the storms of life. When kids are rooted and grounded in the unconditional love and support of a healthy family, they develop a strong core identity with resilience to navigate challenges as they grow into the amazing adults they were created to be.
When Teresa was seven years old, her father committed suicide. She was raised by a single mother and helped to care for her three younger siblings. She began a lifelong journey of healing through a deep, abiding love relationship with Jesus who became her rock at an early age. She became a young mother herself at the age of 19 and now has four devoted sons and seven wonderful grandchildren who are the joy of her life.
She is married to the love of her life, Kerry Pfaff, who is a marriage and relationship counselor here at The Love Factor and they have been together for 33 years.
Teresa is a licensed, ordained, minister who graduated from Grace Bible Institute and became a Professional Pastoral Counselor and a Certified Professional Christian Therapist through the American Association of Christian Therapists in 2014. She spent nine years working as a para-professional in Special Education in Scottsdale, Arizona, and worked as secretary and public speaker for The Child Sexual Abuse Awareness Project, which was later adopted as a curriculum to help teachers, parents and kids affected by sexual abuse. She taught preschool and ran a before and after school daycare program at Paradise Valley Christian School for five years. She was also a Sunday School teacher and Children’s Church leader at Trinity Church in Scottsdale for ten years and a Pastoral Care Counselor at New Life Church in Rathdrum, Idaho. She has been a worship leader and co-pastored Grace Christian Fellowship in Coeur d’Alene with her husband after the death of their beloved pastor, Larry Green. Larry was the head chaplain of the Kootenai County j
Youth & Young Adult Counseling/Coaching
Love Factor Newman Lake, WA
Cierra believes youth and young adults need to deeply know they are worthy of love in order to break destructive generational cycles. Through breaking her own, she has found what is needed in order to overcome childhood trauma. Through her love for Jesus, determined heart, wealth of knowledge and experience… she is able to successfully equip and empower preteens and young adults.
A bit of her testimony is that from birth to adulthood Cierra was given the opportunity to love her mother through her active drug addiction. At the young age of 6, her father passed away in their Oklahoma house fire and a during her middle school years, spent 2 years in CPS. This set her on a mission to find herself through the hardships she was facing on a day to day basis. She truly believes God does not call the qualified, but rather, qualifies the called. Besides her academic education, Cierra’s testimony has made her qualified to be the voice of reason in adolescence lives. She strives to be the
light in their dark hour, holding answers where there are questions, and safety
in order to find their true selves.
She has had years of leadership experience and strongly believes in
continuing education. Cierra is currently working towards the road for her
Masters degree in Social Work.
Family and Parenting Counseling
Love Factor Newman Lake, WA
Cora is a local at heart. Born and raised in North Idaho with the opportunity to live in many of its cities, she understands each community’s unique cultures and people. She is passionate about empowering and equipping individuals with knowledge of their unique natural gifts and how they can use those gifts to strengthen their relationships. The discovery of personal identity and natural inclinations can be a catalyst for meaningful life changes. Cora attended Washington State University, where she double majored in Sociology and received a degree in Psychology, as “nature-vs-nurture” philosophies ignited a profound curiosity within her. Looking to uncover the mysteries of her childhood, she developed a deep desire to help others do the same. From there, she moved and began to advance her career in Jackson Hole, WY. She gained experience in small businesses and non-profit organizations through various roles in landscaping, a sign shop, vacation rental management, dog training, early childhood development, and working with adults with special needs. The diversity of those opportunities drove a mature understanding of the dynamics as well as the people in those environments.
Following a prolonged, painful divorce and custody battle, Cora decided to pursue her dream of mentoring people one-on-one, becoming a certified life coach in hopes that she may directly help individuals find healing and gain clarity along with confidence. Now certified as a facilitator for InFactor, DISC, and other personality assessment tools, her focus is sharing her leadership and team dynamics expertise. Four years ago, Cora returned to Coeur d’Alene, ID, as a single parent to raise her two amazing children alongside close family and friends. She enjoys spending time on Spirit Lake in the summer, downhill skiing in the winter, and visiting hot springs in the mountains. Her academic education, combined with experience and her personal story, allows her to comfortably connect with clients in the process of moving toward personal freedom. She believes a person’s past doesn’t determine who they are but who they become despite those challenges.
Administrative Director, Board Member, Treasurer
Love Factor Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
Jennifer grew up in the small rural town of Bonney Lake, Washington. She is a country girl that loves the outdoors and focuses her dedication to her family and God. She spent her youth hiking and exploring the great outdoors of Western Washington. From the Olympic Peninsula to the snowcapped Cascade Range, she enjoyed all its beauty and challenges. She found her passion in rock climbing. From the Mt Rainier range to the waters of the Puget sound, she met challenges out before her with faith and purpose. She helped her father put together a successful Drain field business, where her AA degree in business brought needed structural and business plan to run and operate their small business. Jennifer’s faith and passion to help others has been a focal point of her heart and desire to further herself in the developing markets and business plans for small businesses. With her love for the outdoors and her expertise in businesses she put together a successful zip line/challenge course business inside the grounds of Northwest Trek Wildlife Park and Point Defiance Zoo, which included the design work, hiring and training of skilled labor, interviewing employees and successfully running their international enterprise.
Jennifer moved to Coeur d’ Alene, Idaho in 2018 with her husband Regan. They enjoy spending time with their son and exploring the special places North Idaho has to offer. She desires to continue to serve her community with faith, and Gods help, directing her on the correct path. With her unique skills and her love to help and serve others towards whatever services are put before her, with all grace and compassion her heart has, she sets forth great devotion and determination to see projects through to completion.
Administrative Assistant
Love Factor Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
Chloe was born on the east coast in New London, Connecticut. She comes from a military family. Her father served in the Navy, so traveling and moving became second nature. Being a part of a military family, Chloe had moved ten times from the time she was born. This is probably where she obtained her funny, sassy, and witty personality. After her father retired from the Navy, her and her family finally settled down in Post Falls, ID. Chloe finished her education for her career and graduated in Post Falls. In her free time she loves all things outdoors including; camping, riding quads, fishing, and going to her family owned property in Saint Marie’s, Idaho. Chloe’s heart for God is shown in her passion to help and uplift people in any way she can. She truly lives to serve others with excellence.
Media & Digital Communications
Newman Lake, WA
Rachel is an explorer of both her local area and beyond! Raised in the PNW, she has grown a fondness for hiking, fishing, and adventuring. As well as having seasoned expertise in graphic design, photography, videography – something that helps fuel her own company which she’s managed to great success over 8 years now. On top of all this Rachel also holds an Associate degree from North Idaho College coupled with a Minor in Communications; allowing for constantly improving knowledge and experience on each new journey! Rachel’s heart is to serve and empower companies and organizations. Outside of running her own company, she is also a valued staff member of Love Factor. She regularly attends and supports her home church, The Heart of the City.
NEXT STEPS
LOCATIONS & HOURS
• Monday – Friday, 8am – 5pm
• Saturday – by appointment only
• Sunday – by appointment only
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LOCATIONS & HOURS
• Monday – Friday, 8am – 5pm
• Saturday – by appointment only
• Sunday – by appointment only
NEXT STEPS
SIGN UP
The Love Factor is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization | Federal Tax ID: 82-3908284
