Frequently Asked Questions

If your feelings of stress, sadness, or anxiety are impacting your daily life, work, or relationships, it is a sign that therapy could be helpful. According to the American Psychological Association, 43 percent of adults reported feeling more anxious in 2024, yet only 24 percent sought help . You don't need a crisis to benefit from therapy. It is a space to build coping skills, improve your well-being, and navigate everyday challenges. Trusting your gut that something feels "off" is reason enough to explore it.

Feeling nervous is completely normal. The first session is primarily about us getting to know each other. I will ask questions like, "What brings you to therapy?" and "How have you been feeling lately?" to understand your story. We will also review practical information like confidentiality and scheduling. There is no pressure to have everything figured out. Just showing up is a brave and important step.

Sometimes, yes. Talking about painful or traumatic experiences can feel like pulling off a bandage—it hurts in the moment. The goal is to properly heal the underlying wounds. In our sessions, I will help create a safe space and work with you on coping techniques to support you as you process difficult emotions. Healing is a gradual process, and we will move at a pace that feels right for you.

A consultation is a chance for you to interview me. You might ask:

- What is your therapeutic approach?

- Do you have experience working with [my specific concern, e.g., anxiety, trauma]?

- What can I expect in our first few sessions?

- How do we assess if we are a good fit?

Asking these questions can help you determine if you feel comfortable and if my style aligns with your needs .

Absolutely. Therapy is not just for major life crises—it is also a powerful tool for managing everyday stress and improving overall well-being. Whether it is handling work pressures, improving communication and boundaries in relationships, or developing better coping skills for daily frustrations, therapy can provide strategies that help you navigate life more effectively.

Yes, treating anxiety is a core part of my practice. I use evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which is considered the most effective form of psychotherapy for anxiety disorders . CBT teaches specific skills to manage anxious thoughts and behaviors, helping you return to a sense of normalcy in your daily life.

Yes, James specialized training in trauma-focused therapies. One of the primary modalities I use is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Research shows that targeting memories of traumatic events through EMDR can produce clinically meaningful improvements in symptoms, even beyond traditional PTSD . It helps the brain reprocess traumatic memories so they become less frightening.

I offer individual therapy for adults. My approach to counseling focuses on improving communication, understanding negative patterns, and rebuilding emotional connection.

Therapy can help you understand the root causes of your depression, whether they are related to life circumstances, thought patterns, or past experiences. We will work together to identify negative thought cycles and develop behavioral strategies to gradually increase your engagement in activities that might bring a sense of accomplishment or joy. Lifestyle changes, such as incorporating exercise and prioritizing sleep, can also be powerful tools in managing depression .

This is an important question. If you are a Washington client who travels temporarily to another state, the laws of the state where you are physically located apply. Washington law allows for some continuity of care for established patients who are temporarily out of state . However, to be safe, we should discuss any travel plans in advance. It is your responsibility to inform me of your location before a session, as practicing across state lines without proper licensure can have legal implications.

Yes, a significant part of my practice involves working with professionals, including those in the tech industry. The high-pressure environment, demanding schedules, and "always-on" culture in the Seattle area can contribute to unique forms of stress, burnout, and imposter syndrome. I understand these dynamics and provide practical, compassionate support.

In Washington state, both are licensed mental health professionals, but their education and focus can differ. A Psychologist typically holds a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) and is licensed by the Washington State Department of Health. A Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) typically holds a master's degree and has completed extensive supervised clinical experience as well as extensive continuing education and is licensed by the Washington State Department of Health. Both are qualified to provide therapy. I am an LMHC, which means my training, and 17 years of experience, are focused on the therapeutic relationship and practical counseling modalities and skills to treat a wide range of mental health concerns.