Paul Hegstrom lived the first 40 years of his life not understanding the driving force that caused him to self-destruct again and again. A failed marriage that was full of violence, a second relationship that was even more violent, $20,000 worth of therapy that could not bring change - and still the rage continued. Violence, drugs, and alcohol became a way of life until the threat of a long-term jail sentence brought him to the reality that he needed help. Facing severe consequences, Paul was motivated to discover the roots of his problems and begin the healing process.
The dramatic change of outlook in his life led Paul to take steps to help thousands of families facing the same jeopardy he suffered. Over 16,000 hours of research and 28,000 of facilitating domestic violence groups for men and women and developing a teen program were all a part of the development of the Life Skills program. In over 135 centers all around the world, the "Learning to Live, Learning to Love" program now brings help to hurting men, women, and children. The program teaches life skills to individuals with unacceptable behaviors and enhances family relationships through nurturing character and maturity.
Paul holds a bachelor of science degree in pastoral counseling, is a candidate for a master of science degree in marriage and family therapy, and holds an honorary doctorate from Evangelical Theological Seminary. He is a certified cognitive behavioral therapist with the National Board of Cognitive Behavioral Therapists and has been featured by such national media as USA Today, Focus on the Family, The 700 Club, Montel Williams, Sally Jessy Raphael, and the Coral Ridge Hour. Paul and Judy Hegstrom's story was featured in the 1995 CBS movie Unforgivable: The Life Story of Paul Hegstrom, which starred John Ritter.
