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Graduated from Eastern Michigan University with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology
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Graduated from Walden University with a Master of Science Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with Specialization in Crisis and Trauma
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Licensed in the State of Florida as a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
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Completed academic Practicum at Memorial Hospital Jacksonville (Intensive Outpatient and Partially Hospitalized Behavioral Programs)
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Completed academic Internship at Recovery Counseling and More, Inc.
Born in Alabama, James grew up in Michigan. He and his family have lived in Jacksonville for several years. James’ dream was to become a counseling psychologist. Instead, he accepted a position with General Motors to more quickly pay off his and his wife’s student loans. That decision altered his career projection for several years. As a result, he acquired a wealth of experience working in several industries: automotive, manufacturing, aerospace, defense, education, banking, insurance, and information technology. He understands the challenges and stresses of corporate life because he has been there. James has held all types of jobs: factory worker, clerk, computer programmer, industrial engineer, trainer, software engineer, systems engineer, supervisor, manager, director, and assistant vice-president.
His careers have enabled him to interact with many different cultures in the US and overseas. His most enjoyable position was when his corporation transferred him to Cairo, Egypt, to set up a computer center and teach Egyptian students programming skills. His wife and young son accompanied him to Egypt where they lived for over three years. These experiences have made it easier to relate to the work challenges that the young and old alike face today, as well as the challenges of diverse cultures and religions.
James has worked hard but he has learned to play hard too. He enjoys foreign and domestic travel, scuba diving, running, swimming, dancing, playing the piano, music, art, watching standup comedians, and watching Michigan’s football team beat Ohio State. Balancing work and play were skills he had to learn. One of his more unusual hobbies has been studying world religions and spirituality: Christianity, Gnosticism, Judaism, Sufism, Taoism, Islam, Rational Mysticism, Buddhism, Hinduism, Shamanism, Krisha, and many more.
The combination of his years of experience and his fresh up-to-date education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling should help James to collaborate with you as you continue your journey of exploring your Self. His specialization in crisis and trauma is no accident because he has experienced these and knows how difficult it is to not just survive but to thrive. His therapeutic approach draws heavily from cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, and person-centered therapy—whatever approach fits you best. All this said, James knows that most individuals do not care how much you know unless they know that you care. James cares. He invites you to work with him to safely explore and enjoy living life as your Best Self.