Bob Keteyian grew up in the Detroit area in an Armenian-American family. His grandparents were born in the "old country," immigrating to the United States during the early 20th century. Coming from a bi-lingual family whose social network remained in the Armenian community, Bob's cultural background played a significant role in his development and world view.
After graduating from Western Michigan University in 1971, he began a teaching career in elementary education. With a strong interest in working individually with kids and their families, he moved from classroom teaching to social work with developmentally delayed and disabled children in the Boston area.
While vacationing north of Boston in the mid 1970s, Bob discovered the natural beauty of Maine and his desire to live in a more rural area. Acadia National Park presented a strong lure. The Maine coast remains home for Bob and his wife.
In 1979 Bob received a Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology from Cambridge College. During graduate school he also worked in a community mental health center and an adolescent counseling/activity program.
Bob established his counseling practice in 1980 in Ellsworth, Maine. A well-known figure on Main Street, he has consulted with area schools, businesses and organizations, and given numerous workshops on various mental health topics.
In 2003, the practice expanded to include George Elias. Today,
Elias & Keteyian, Counselors to Families and Businesses specializes in helping individuals, families, businesses and organizations resolve complex personal and relational issues.
Best known for his interest and expertise in the area of interpersonal communication, Bob has developed specialized consultation services for parents, teachers, business leaders, couples and families with a focus on achieving effective communication practices. Bob has presented his work at state and national conferences, as well as conducted workshops, training sessions, and consultations throughout the United States.
Bob and his wife, Susan Ariane Garfield, enjoy being grandparents with four grandchildren on the west coast and two on the east coast. Bob is also a singer, performing in large and small ensembles, community theater, and various solo venues.
