James Strawn

Hello and Welcome. I am James Strawn and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with close to 25 years of clinical experience. I approach therapy from a holistic perspective taking into consideration the whole person within the context of their mental health needs. My focus areas of practice are anxiety, depression, early stages of dementia and memory impairment, sexual orientation, mens issues, grief and loss therapy, relationship problems, and life transition related issues

My approach

My approach considers environmental and other stressors be taken into consideration when providing therapy. I have found that in my years of practice, the whole of a person is affected by not just one, but by various other factors that have the potential to bring about mental health distress. The most common theoretical approaches I utilize are cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, reality therapy, problem-solving therapy, and client centered therapy approaches.

My focus

I typically work with individual adult clients 18years of age through middle age years. I also have extensive experience working with older adult clients over the age of 60 who have been diagnosed with early dementia or other memory impairment problems. I work with clients from all cultural backgrounds. I am comfortable, treating anxiety and depressive mood disorders, sexual orientation issues, grief and loss, relationship problems, self esteem and confidence building, mens issues and life transition related problems

My communication style

Non-judgmental and empathetic. Comfortable, warm and inviting. I help to create a safe and secure environment for all my clients where they can be themselves, exactly as they are in the given moment. I believe the therapeutic relationship is one of the most important aspects of therapy. A strong trusting relationship between the client and the therapist is vital in order for a client to begin to experience healthy change. I believe it is important for all clients to feel like they have been heard. I also believe it is important to increase a client's self awareness in regards to making informed and healthy choices for themselves.

My journey to mental healthcare

I was attracted to my career as a therapist because I was once a client myself. As a client in my younger years, therapy helped redirect my life in a positive way that brought about meaningful change. Education is one thing, but having experience as an actual client has given me added insight into understanding what someone may be experiencing on a feeling level.

My goals for you

Goal setting with client starts with the client defining his or her view of what problem is at the given moment. I encourage the client to define the problem as they see it without judgment. I believe setting realistic and obtainable goals for clients drastically increases their chances of success. Accomplishing goals more often (even if they are small) also helps keep clients remain motivated.

My first session with you

Clients should feel welcomed and respected. Clients can expect to be heard and understood in a nonjudgmental way. It is my hope that all my clients experience empathy, validation, and a sense of safety during their initial session with me. During our first session it is my hope that all my clients get a sense that healthy change is possible.