James initially became a therapist because he was helped by therapy. He has been in the mental health field since 1999 and became licensed in 2014.
James graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Human Services Management from the University of Phoenix in 2011, and a Master of Social Work from the University of Utah in 2014. He also earned the Dr. Sharon Goodwill Memorial Award for Achievement and Promise in Mental Health from the University of Utah College of Social Work in 2014. During his career, James designed and implemented therapeutic programming for multiple treatment centers, including policies and procedures, safety protocols, and training for a private, inpatient, neuropsychological hospital.
His areas of expertise include adults, adolescents, families, parents, trauma, substance abuse, ASD, psychosis, depression, and anxiety. He is trained in Motivational Interviewing, Process-Based CBT, Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, EMDR, A.R.T. (Accelerated Resolution Therapy), Informed Lens, Relationship-Based Therapy, Attachment Theory, Family Systems and L.E.A.P.
James has a naturally skeptical and questioning mind. He likes to examine thoughts and feelings in a scientific manner while simultaneously being sensitive and in tune with the emotions of others. This gives him the capacity to have compassion and be of great help to his clients. Many have said they appreciate his ability to be straightforward but tactful, and that he walks with them on the journey instead of trying to be the expert.
The most important thing James wants people to know about mental health is that the stigma is undeserved. We are all touched in some way by mental illness. Having conversations about it without minimizing or romanticizing it is vital. His ultimate goal is to be a good enough therapist in the eyes of his clients.
When he’s not working with clients, James can be found hiking, biking, and backpacking in the great outdoors. He also enjoys live music and spending time with his friends and family.