The Team

Pillars offers personalized Counseling, Guidance, and Care for individuals and families, with a focus on supporting men’s roles in family and community. Our mission is to foster growth through trust, compassion, and acceptance, creating nurturing environments for personal and spiritual development.

Harry Robinson, M.A.PC

President, Pillars | Pastoral Counselor
Harry Robinson is a dedicated pastoral counselor and the visionary leader of Pillars— formerly known as Families in Rich Encounters (FiRE). Under his guidance, Pillars has enhanced its focus, particularly on supporting men through their unique life challenges, alongside its ongoing commitment to families and couples.

With a robust background in both the corporate world and pastoral care, Harry uses his extensive experience to address the complex dynamics of personal, spiritual, and relational growth. His approach is deeply compassionate yet practical, providing clients with the tools they need for immediate application, fostering confidence and authentic change in their lives and relationships.

Ordained as a pastor since 2005, Harry’s journey in ministry began at Capo Beach Church, focusing on Family Ministry and Pastoral Care, and expanded at Mission Viejo Christian Church as the Discipleship Pastor. Before his ordination, Harry developed his leadership and strategic skills in business development and marketing at Gateway Computers and Armor All Products.

He holds a Master of Arts in Pastoral Counseling from Liberty University and a B.S. in Psychology & Social Science from Vanguard University. In addition to his role at Pillars, Harry serves as a chaplain for the Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA), where he brings his empathetic and insightful support and encouragement to first responders in their critical roles. His life’s work reflects his belief that “Healing and joy come from renewed thinking so that you avoid the pitfalls that continuously cause painful encounters.” A significant part of his mission involves the Real Men Curriculum, a program tailored to guide young men in understanding and embracing their roles with integrity and responsibility. This initiative reflects Harry’s commitment to nurturing the potential of men to lead enriched and fulfilling lives. His life’s work reflects his belief that “Healing, growth, and joy come from renewed thinking so that you avoid the pitfalls that continuously cause painful encounters.”

Married to his college sweetheart, Carmen, since 1989, Harry is a devoted father to their four children—two sons and two daughters and five grandchildren — four boys and one granddaughter. His family life enriches his understanding and empathy, qualities that he brings into every counseling session and workshop, making him a pillar in his community and a beacon for those seeking guidance. His life and work are a testament to his commitment to building stronger, healthier and joy filled families and communities through faith, compassion, renewed insight and relentless support.

Harry’s motto, “Healing and joy come from renewed thinking so that you avoid the pitfalls that continuously cause painful encounters,” This captures the essence of his counselling philosophy.

Jim O’Brien, M.A. Psychology

Professional Counselor
Jim O'Brian is a seasoned counselor with almost a decade of experience in ministry, specializing in supporting college and career-aged individuals. His heart lies in counseling, where he has devoted the majority of his career. Throughout his ten years at Saddleback Church, Jim has primarily worked with adult men and couples, guiding them through their healing journeys toward resolution.

Jim feels deeply honored to be entrusted with his clients' stories, even when they are filled with pain and struggle. Armed with empathy and insight, he is committed to providing the support needed for emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being. His unique perspective blends his background in ministry, psychology degree, 40-year spiritual journey with Christ, 31-year marriage, and experience raising two children.

Creating a safe and compassionate space for individuals to share their stories is of utmost importance to Jim. He values trust and understanding and works diligently to foster strong connections with his clients. If someone is seeking a counselor who truly listens, offers empathetic support, and provides valuable insights, Jim is ready to walk alongside them on their personal journey toward healing and resolution. Together, they can navigate the path to well-being.

Matthew Quinones, Life Coach

Matthew's life journey has been a testament to the power of overcoming hardships and addiction. From a young age, he faced numerous challenges, but through the grace of God, he emerged stronger and wiser. What makes Matthew truly exceptional is his ability to extract valuable lessons from his experiences, enabling him to guide other young men in their pursuit of fulfilling their divine purpose.

Drawing guidance from the word of God, Matthew has discovered crucial principles that lead to success and personal growth. He firmly believes that implementing these principles is the pathway to becoming a responsible and prosperous individual. Within his teachings, Matthew emphasizes the crucial connection between mental and physical well-being, recognizing that spiritual strength operates synergistically with physical vitality.

For Matthew, tending to his mind and body is of utmost importance, as he considers a vibrant spirit and a healthy physique to be intertwined. He is an advocate for nourishing the body with real, wholesome foods provided by God and engaging in physical exercise. Recognizing that the body serves as a vessel for the Holy Spirit, Matthew believes it is our sacred duty, as members of the body of Jesus Christ, to maintain a robust and thriving physical form.

At the age of 14, Matthew has been a benefactor from the services of FiRE. Now, through his captivating journey filled with triumph over adversity, Matthew stands as a beacon of inspiration for all. His transformation serves as a powerful reminder that one's past does not define their future. Armed with unwavering faith, Matthew's mission is to empower young men to embrace their innate potential and become the remarkable individuals God intended them to be. With his unique blend of spiritual wisdom and practical insights, Matthew is poised to ignite positive change within countless lives, presenting a roadmap for personal transformation that is both motivating and inspiring.

Matthew looks forward to helping you enrich your life.

Pillars Religious Affiliation FAQ

  • Yes, Pillars is founded on Christian principles and seeks to serve others with love, compassion, and care as demonstrated by the teachings of Jesus Christ. Our mission is to uplift individuals and communities through counseling, mentoring, and practical support, while emphasizing spiritual growth and wholeness.

  • No, our services are available to people of all faiths or no faith at all. While we are guided by Christian values, our counseling, mentoring, and care services are open to everyone, regardless of their faith or spiritual views. We respect each person’s beliefs and tailor our services to meet the unique needs of every individual.

  • For those who are interested, we integrate Christian principles and spiritual guidance into our counseling and mentoring programs. However, our approach is client-centered, meaning we respect each individual’s preferences and comfort levels. If you prefer not to include religious or spiritual elements in your sessions, we fully honor that choice.

  • Yes, Pillars collaborates with various faith-based organizations, including churches, synagogues, mosques, and other religious institutions that prioritize community welfare. These partnerships help us extend our reach and impact within the community.

  • Our core spiritual values are rooted in the Christian faith and center around love, service, integrity, and compassion. We believe in living out the greatest commandments: loving God and loving our neighbors as ourselves. This drives everything we do, from counseling to community outreach.

  • Participation in religious activities or prayers is entirely optional at Pillars. We offer opportunities for prayer and spiritual reflection for those who are interested, but there is no requirement or expectation for clients to engage in religious practices.

  • Our counselors and mentors are trained to provide professional, evidencebased counseling that can incorporate spiritual guidance when desired by the client. We are committed to offering a balanced approach that respects both the mental health and spiritual well-being of each person, without imposing any beliefs.

  • We understand that spiritual beliefs can be personal and evolving. At Pillars, we offer a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore any questions or concerns you may have, whether they are related to faith or other aspects of your life. You are welcome here, no matter where you are on your spiritual journey.

  • Yes, for those who are seeking spiritual growth, Pillars offers guidance through faith-based counseling and mentoring programs. We aim to help individuals strengthen their relationship with God, deepen their understanding of spiritual principles, and integrate faith into their daily lives, through one-on-one counseling and through various small group meetings.

  • Yes, we work with various religious organizations to provide counseling, mentoring, and community care services. We support churches and other faith-based groups in their efforts to foster emotional, mental, and spiritual health among their members.

  • Pillars is flexible in its approach and can offer a completely secular counseling experience if that is your preference. Our goal is to provide services that align with your needs and values, whether they include a spiritual component or not.