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Gail St. James, LMFT, is a California licensed marriage and family therapist. As a Humanistic Therapist, I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as the foundation of my practice, as well as Motivational Interviewing, allowing the client to take the lead in their own well-being. Although client history and traumatic events are important, I focus on the present, and moving forward in life, a positive approach to avoid centering on the past.
My approach
The foundation of my work is based on the Humanistic Orientation, whereas I am the professional in the therapeutic relationship; however, the client is the expert in their life. Clients have a wealth of knowledge and strengths that are imperative to their healing. It is often a process of digging deep inside to find these strengths and put them into practice.
My focus
I work with anyone who appeals to my skills with motivation to heal and move forward in their life! There are no specific conditions, although anxiety is a major foundation of so many disorders that I find treating anxiety, PTSD, and related depressive symptoms is the springboard to reduce symptoms of many other disorders.
My communication style
I prefer a relaxed atmosphere, where clients feel they are meeting someone who cares deeply that they find respite from their disorders and daily stressors. Clients often tell me this is how they feel, and also often tell me they leave sessions energized with positive motivation and renewed hope!
My journey to mental healthcare
My world of therapy began in my youth, raised in a family with an emotionally disturbed brother. Watching my parents handle the lifelong issues he faced and the family faced, with compassion and seeking the support of their friends, community, and professionals, encouraged me to be a part of this healing work.
My goals for you
I assess each individual, provide psychoeducation regarding their symptoms, and explain my approach to treat these symptoms and not the label they often "google up" prior to entering therapy. While I applaud a client's motivation to learn and find answers to the problems caused by their disorders, I most often find they internalize much more than necessary leading to invalid diagnoses, and fear of treatment. I enjoy teaching clients their road will be much less difficult than they make it out to be!
My first session with you
Clients will participate in our first session by responding to a few demographic questions often required by insurance companies today, and much history about themselves, their problems, their thoughts on how the problem transpired in their lives, and how willing they are to work toward healing.
