Born on November 24, 1967, in Puyallup, Washington, Mike Linderman was named after his Uncle Mike who was killed on his first day in the field in Vietnam. Raised on a “hobby ranch” in Trout Creek, Montana, Mike’s family had pigs, chickens, horses, cows (milking and beef), and a garden the size of a football field.  His parents were rigorous in ensuring that rules are obeyed but there were always times of great laughter and joy. The Lindermans were a family who worked hard and played hard. Mike’s fondly reflects on his childhood.

During Mike’s first semester of college he took Psychology 101 and realized that this was his true calling. He then enlisted in the Air Force serving 6 years and participated in Operation Desert Storm in Iraq. The military provided him with the opportunity to complete his undergraduate and studies in Social Psychology.  Eighteen months after starting his graduate work, Mike had a master’s degree in Education, Counseling and Development.

As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Mike has now worked with teens and families for nearly twenty years. In 2007, Mike co-authored the book “The Teen Whisperer” with Gary Brozek, featured in publications such as The New York Times, USA Today, The Chicago Tribune, and Family Circle Magazine. Mike is currently the director of Elk Mountain Academy, a 12 Step therapeutic boarding school for adolescent males. He is also a leading counselor for One Change Group, a non-profit organization providing intensive weekend workships for struggling parents of teenagers.

An avid outdoorsman, rancher and proud veteran of the US Air Force, Mike and his wife Janna have been married for 23 years and have three grown children. Mike’s children are a consistent inspiration for his continued growth both personally and professionally.