James Witmer II, LCSW — Therapist in California

Hi there, I'm James!

I am a supportive, 'meet you where you are' kind of therapist. I understand the need to feel better and to heal. Regardless of your background or how you identify, you are welcome here.

My focus

It is normal to feel not-so-normal. Anxiety, depression, adjusting to change, experiencing loss, questioning who we are - even being unsure of ourselves or our surroundings - place us in a state of vulnerability. Allowing ourselves to sit with the vulnerability and to talk about it empowers us to find the courage to grow.

My approach

I approach our sessions together with openness and a willingness to listen. It is about your goals and how we can work together toward your success. I offer compassion, not judgement. Feedback Informed Therapy is really important to me so that I can learn how to be the best I can be for you.

My communication style

You are welcome to share as much or as little as you wish in our time together. My hope is that I can match your communication style and preferences, and let you know it's okay sometimes to sit with our own discomfort and then find our way out of it - knowing that we were never judged throughout that entire process. Compassion is key.

My journey to mental healthcare

No life comes without its struggles - mine included. Knowing that pain is something we both don't deserve and shouldn't have to hold onto was the epiphany that started me on the journey to becoming a therapist. You are welcome to ask me more about my journey in becoming a therapist in our sessions together if you wish. I'm happy to share.

My goals for you

Therapy is a collaborative process. Whether you're here for just a session or two, or for a bit longer - we will identify your expectations of therapy, of me, and of yourself. I want to help you, empower you, to where you can better help yourself - from discovering your innate strengths to guiding you toward new ones, and always supporting you.

Our first session

First and foremost, I want to ensure that you feel safe and secure in our space together. Then, depending on your preferences and goals, we may complete a brief assessment - called a biopsychosocial assessment - so that I can understand how better to serve you.

I identify as...

Male
Caucasian or White
Agnostic

Expertise

Focus populations

LGBTQIA+

Police/Fire/First Responders

Transgender

Body Positivity

Educators

Gay

Lesbian

Non-Binary

Open Relationships/Non-Monogamy

Queer

Racial Justice

Recovery/12 Step Friendly

+ 12 more

Therapy types

Couples Therapy
Family Therapy
Individual Therapy

Ages served

Minors
Adults

Practice

Accepted insurance providers

Aetna
Allegiance
Allied
Arlo
Ascension-SmartHealth

+ 18 more

Languages spoken

English

Education

Master of Social Work (MSW) in Adult Mental Health and Wellness from University of Southern California.

Sessions

60 minutes

Virtual sessions

James Witmer II