I appreciate the genuine thought James puts into his responses to my questions. He listens to everything I talk about, and seems to actually care about helping me improve myself and fix/repair all my issues.
A Thriveworks Client, verified client of James
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Coping Skills, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma / PTSD, Self-Harming, Anger Management, Grief
Accepted insurance & self-pay
About James
James Atkison is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 12 years experience in the mental health field. He has experiences with trauma, PTSD, suicidal and non-suicidal self injury, as well as depression and anxiety. He works with children, adolescents, adults to help them achieve the success they are desiring.
James completed his Master's degree in Counseling Psychology at the University of Central Oklahoma. He is a combat veteran from the Army and understands the stresses of transitioning to civilian life. This, in addition to his professional experience, enables him to provide the guidance and support his clients are seeking. James utilizes multiple treatment approaches including mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), cognitive processing therapy (CPT), and motivational interviewing (MI).
Life is like a river with calm waters and rapids. James is confident that he would be able to provide you will the tools to navigate the river of Life. If you are ready to gain the tools and knowledge you need to navigate the rapids in your life, schedule an appointment with him today.
" I know the importance of having a safe place to discuss anything that is bothering you."
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.
It was what I needed when I was struggling the most. James is very good at seeing why I'm having a struggle.
A Thriveworks Client, verified client of James
I appreciate the genuine thought James puts into his responses to my questions. He listens to everything I talk about, and seems to actually care about helping me improve myself an....
A Thriveworks Client, verified client of James
I like that the session adapts to what I'm needing. Lately just talking and it's perfect for me.
A Thriveworks Client, verified client of James
James has helped me immensely with my unimaginable grief. He has been understanding, empathetic and invaluable to my journey in finding peace and acceptance. I have always resiste....
A Thriveworks Client, verified client of James
Get to know James
Why did you decide to become a counselor?
I had left the military in 1993 and was undecided on what I wanted out of life. Transitioning to civilian life was not easy. I finally completed my Bachelor's Degree in Psychology in 2004 and took a couple of more years to decide that counseling was the direction I wanted to take. With the number of returning servicemembers who would be dealing with returning to civilians, I felt called to help. As my career as a counseling professional began, I was dealing with adolescents who experienced trauma, which was a different direction than I expected I would be headed. I ended up dealing with traumatized individuals, children, adolescents, and adults who experienced a variety of traumas in their lives and I felt that calling shift.
What types of clients do you work with best?
I work best with clients who want to change what is not working in their lives.
What type of clients are you most excited to work with?
I am excited working with clients who are wanting the changes I can provide the tools to accomplish those changes.
What's one thing you wish all clients knew?
The Cognitive triangle and how it operates.
Why did you choose to practice at Thriveworks?
I am choosing to practice at Thriveworks for the opportunities they can provide that I have not found by myself. I am hoping for the chance to find support for my Supervision license and provide my expertise to a number of new clients.
What inspires you?
My wife. She is a strong Native American woman who knows herself. She is confident and supportive.
What can clients expect in their first session with you?
I like for clients to get to know me by asking any questions they might have. If the client is unable to think of any questions, I have a handout with 7 questions that clients should ask of new therapists. They cover things like, "what can I expect during a normal session" and "what is the counselor's approach and how is it different from other therapists." I really like to establish that the client is the expert in the room and I have maps to follow and tools to offer to improve their journey in Life.
What do you want to accomplish with an individual in their first session?
A feel for the direction that the client wants to take the next sessions.
What should clients know about you before scheduling a first counseling session?
I like to provide the tools for the client to accomplish things between sessions. I like for us to have commitments between sessions.
What do you do for fun/on your time off?
I enjoy target shooting at the range. I like to build models and Lego sets. I am an avid reader and enjoy many genres of literature.
What's one thing about you that defines you (non-professional)?
My military experiences.
Other areas of focus
Education and training
- Years in practice
- 12 years
- Graduating institute
- University of Central Oklahoma
- Graduating degree
- Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology
Additional details
Practice information
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