Thomas is a graduate of Western Oregon University and holds a Master of Science in rehabilitation counseling, a specialty area which focuses on the biopsychosocial impact of medical illness, chronic pain, and disability on general mental health concerns. Rehabilitation counselors are also charged with assessing functional limitations and barriers which prevent individuals with disabilities from entering, returning or retaining employment and have extensive knowledge of career and adjustment counseling as well as workplace accommodations and disability related law. Thomas is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Oregon and a Board Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC). His work history and experience have been in a variety of settings working with diverse populations, including several years in vocational rehabilitation, private practice, community mental health, university counseling and practice at Options Counseling and Family Services, a nonprofit agency. He has also worked as a counselor educator since 2016.

A native Oregonian, Thomas absolutely loves the Pacific Northwest. In his spare time, he reads a wide variety of books with specific interests in science fiction, philosophy, psychology and theology. He is currently reading Astrophysics for People in a Hurry by Neil deGrasse Tyson. New Trek (Strange New Worlds, Lower Decks, etc.), The Orville: New Horizons and Rings of Power are current shows of interest during his times of rest and recreation. Thomas considers himself to be very eclectic when it comes to interests and is always willing to explore, research and try new things.