Alan grew up on a wheat farm in the Midwest. In the early years of his career he taught philosophy and psychology at an inner city community college and provided psychotherapy in a mental health center. For many years thereafter, he was clinical director in community mental health centers. He earned master degrees in divinity and theology and is a licensed clinical social worker. For health and fun he practices inner body meditation, jogs, hikes and dances. His life is further enriched with two wonderful daughters and two ever remarkable grandchildren.