Pete Ungaro Ph.D. 

Hello,

 

I’m Pete Ungaro, PhD. I want to take a moment to connect with you on a deeply personal level because I've walked the difficult path you're navigating. I’ve witnessed the aftermath of tragedy—mangled babies in the back seat after a drunk driving incident, the horrifying reality of a child's sexual assault, the chaos of a drug addict losing control, and the profound grief of a mother mourning a senseless loss.

 

I've faced the demons of my own mind—the nightmares that claw at you, the panic that strikes without warning, and the inexplicable aggression that can consume you. I know what it feels like to stand at the edge of despair, contemplating an end. Yet, during my darkest moments, someone reached out, reminded me of the love and support from my family and community, and helped me find my way back to the light. Today, I want to extend that hand to you. You are not alone in this fight. It’s okay to admit you’re not okay; recognizing this truth can be the first step toward healing.

 

My Journey

 

I've dedicated almost 18 years to law enforcement with the Johnson County Sheriff's Office in Iowa City, where I become certified in Drug Recognition and Field Sobriety Testing, focusing on training warriors for the challenges they face.

 

Academically, I hold a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice and Police Psychology, a Master’s in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Leadership and Executive Management, and a PhD in Psychology focusing on Forensic Psychology. Currently, I’m pursuing my counseling certification to further empower my mission of helping others.

 

What sets me apart is my personal struggle with PTSD. This experience gives me a profound understanding of the darkness you may be experiencing. I’m here to offer not just clinical knowledge, but heartfelt insight into the battles we face, and guidance on how to let the light back in. Together, we can navigate this journey towards healing and hope.