Dr. Brooks is always own time and always gives me the opportunity for questions. He has given very sound advice. He makes me feel comfortable during sessions.
A Thriveworks Client, verified client of J Byron
See what other clients sayAccepted insurance & self-pay
About J Byron
Dr. Brooks began his career in mental health and addictions counseling in 1992. Since that time, he has worked in inpatient and outpatient settings as varied as rural community clinics, hospitals, managing clinics in urban communities, directing an international employee assistance program, university counseling centers, and developing & managing treatment programs for executives and professionals. Populations he has served have been just as varied—addictions (both substance abuse and behavioral), mental health, individuals & families, adoption, indigent persons, athletes, executives, and professionals. He has held faculty positions at 6 universities and colleges in psychology and counseling programs.
Dr. Brooks earned his bachelor's in Psychology from East Carolina University, his master's degree in Rehabilitation Counseling and a master's in Substance Abuse Counseling from ECU. After working for a few years, he returned to ECU and earned a Certificate of Advanced Study in Employee Assistance Program counseling and later an EdS in Counselor Education. He completed his academic career at NCSU where he received his Ph.D. in Counselor Education & Supervision. Dr. Brooks worked full-time as a therapist while in school and brings a wealth of practical as well as academic experiences to his practice. His counseling style is based in the philosophies of Stoicism, existentialism and the work of Viktor Frankl's logotherapy using the theories of cognitive development and the tools of cognitive behavioral and rational-emotive therapies
We have good days and bad days. Or we can say we have growing days. Growing days are those occasions when we are challenged to learn, change, and improve our lives and the lives of those that are most important to us.

"As a clinician with over 30 years of experience, I have worked in multiple settings with widely differing populations and needs as a clinician, supervisor, and educator. "
What clients say
These testimonials are from real clients who completed a satisfaction survey after their sessions and agreed to share their feedback. Results may vary.
Dr Brooks is amazing. Great listener and definitely gives great advice and guidance.
A Thriveworks Client, verified client of J Byron
Dr. Brooks is always own time and always gives me the opportunity for questions. He has given very sound advice. He makes me feel comfortable during sessions.
A Thriveworks Client, verified client of J Byron
Get to know J Byron
Why did you decide to become a counselor?
When I was in fourth grade one of my classmates developed a problem with alcohol and drugs. In high school I watched her baby go through withdrawals. I already had an interest in human behavior and relationships but those experiences created the desire to help people.
What can clients expect in their first session with you?
Our first session will be very relaxed and conversational. We'll get to know each other, identify what is most important to you and what you would like help with, and then develop a plan to get us started in the right direction.
What do you want to accomplish with an individual in their first session?
I want us to develop rapport and trust. I want to make sure that we know what your needs or goals are and have an understanding of how we will address those issues.
Other areas of focus
Education and training
- Years in practice
- 36 years
- Graduating institute
- NCSU
- Graduating degree
- PhD--Counselor Education
