James Borgeson

My name is James (Mick) Borgeson and I have been a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist since 1997. Over the past 25 years of clinical practice, the therapeutic relationship has remained the greatest predictor of positive outcomes. I strive to create an environment of safety and acceptance, regardless of what the client's experiences may be, in which positive and lasting change can occur.

My approach

The first step in the counseling process is to hear the client's story. It may be related to a current stressor or circumstance, or it may be a longer-term pattern causing ongoing concern. Most clients seek counseling when they are experiencing emotional dysregulation or distress. It is important to identify and/or develop skills to better regulate emotions so the hard work of change can begin. I explore the clients' history of navigating life challenges, identify goals, and support change with practical and measurable strategies.

My focus

I work with a wide variety of clientele. Mood-related conditions, trauma-exposed, family dynamics and dysfunction, substance-related, grief.

My communication style

It is critically important to have an open, nonjudgmental communication style with clients. I am calm, reflective, emotionally attuned, and empathic. Clients feel heard and understood and supported when they meet with me.

My journey to mental healthcare

Growing up with four siblings and two working parents I was always an observer of family dynamics. I married and co-parented four stepchildren and then a daughter of my own. Navigating the often challenging times of a blended family included finding support and guidance from therapy. I wanted to affect change in people's lives and first tried teaching. I wanted to do deeper work with families than could be done in the classroom so I returned to graduate school and began my career as a therapist.

My goals for you

Goals for counseling are very important. They provide an intention and direction to the counseling process. Goals need to be explicit and measurable. Goal setting tends to be a collaborative process following the clients presenting challenges and changes they are seeking.

My first session with you

The first session usually includes sharing the presenting problem, relevant history, answering questions about the counseling process, and beginning to develop rapport. Clients can expect to be heard and accepted and they often feel less stressed and more hopeful that solutions to their distress are possible.