Cheryl James

I have always had a passion for working in the helping professions and I knew early on in my academic career that the field of social work would allow me dynamic opportunities to help a wide range of clients throughout my professional career. I decided to pursue both undergraduate and master's level education at San Diego State University majoring in clinical social work with an emphasis on working with children, youth, and families. Shortly after graduation, I obtained my dream job of working at Rady’s Children’s Hospital as a child abuse trauma therapist. At Rady’s Children’s Hospital, I was able to develop strong foundational clinical skills in working with individuals across the life cycle who had experienced varying degrees of trauma. The intersectionality of child abuse trauma, culture, spirituality, cognitive functioning, and socioeconomic status allowed me to develop a strong capacity of compassion, patience, and humility. I gained valuable experience in the areas of complex trauma, substance use disorders, and mental illness. I learned how to be effective in modalities of individual, family, and parent-child therapy. During this time, I developed a specialty in trauma-focused CBT, Psychodynamic therapy, and family therapy. Working with children and families, I developed an appreciation of understanding the systemic approach towards intergenerational trauma, and the management of internalized stressors in the concept of grief, attachment, depression, and anxiety. After nine years working at Rady’s Children’s Hospital, I expanded my skill set to work within a number of different clinical settings including care management, utilization case management, home health, and teaching in education.

I opened a psychotherapy private practice in October of 2000, specializing in working with teens through older adults using an eclectic approach to psychotherapy that includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) which is rooted in the principle that thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected, CBT aims to identify and modify maladaptive cognitive patterns and behaviors. By fostering awareness of dysfunctional thought processes and implementing practical strategies for change, CBT empowers clients to challenge negative beliefs and develop healthier coping mechanisms. Its structured and goal-oriented nature makes it particularly effective in addressing specific issues such as anxiety disorders, depression, and trauma-related symptoms. I find this modality of treatment not only evidence-based but also effective in working with a wide range of clients in a relatable manner. In addition to CBT, I also incorporate a Person-Centered Therapeutic approach which offers a humanistic perspective that emphasizes empathy, unconditional positive regard, and genuineness. This client-centered approach prioritizes the therapeutic relationship as the catalyst for growth and self-discovery. By providing a supportive and nonjudgmental environment, I am able to facilitate my clients’ exploration of their experiences, emotions, and values, empowering them to navigate their journey toward self-actualization. Finally, a third clinical approach that I like to incorporate into the therapeutic framework is Solution-Focused therapeutic interventions which further enrich the eclectic approach I like to use by focusing on my clients’ strengths, resources, and solutions rather than dwelling on problems. By eliciting clients’ goals and amplifying their existing skills and successes, I am able to foster a sense of agency and hope and empower my clients to construct actionable plans for moving forward.

As a private practice psychotherapist, I have integrated my years of theory and practice to inform my understanding of the unique nuances of human experience. The process of conducting a thorough bio-psychosocial assessment at the onset of therapy, requires the unique ability of understanding and appreciating the dynamics of the individual that I am fortunate to work with. I value the opportunity of developing a trusting relationship between the client and myself. To be able to help an individual navigate the nuances of psychic difficulties that may manifest in disorders such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and grief requires reciprocal respect and appreciation between the therapist and the client throughout the healing process. When done correctly allows both the client and the therapist the opportunity to develop and grow in ways that are both profound and therapeutic.

Despite using CBT, solution-focused and Problem-Solving styles of therapeutic intervention, I also practice with an eclectic approach to client problem resolution. The rationale behind adopting an eclectic therapy style lies in its ability to harness the strengths of each modality while tailoring interventions to meet the unique needs and preferences of individual clients. Using an eclectic perspective requires me to remain open-minded and continually engage my client in an ongoing learning and professional relationship. Also, drawing from diverse theoretical orientations, I can flexibly adapt their approach based on the presenting concerns, goals, and cultural background of their clients. This integrative approach allows me to offer personalized and holistic care that addresses the multifaceted nature of the human experience.

Later in my professional career, I was provided an opportunity to teach at San Diego State University in the Department of Social Work. I have taught at both the undergraduate and graduate level with course concepts that focus on social work practice, theory and implementation for the past 9 years. I have enjoyed my role as lecturer and mentor for students who plan to have professional careers in the field of social work. In the role of lecturer and mentor, I can share a wide range of clinically experiential practice concepts to facilitate a deeper understanding of working with vulnerable populations.

Currently, I continue to enjoy the benefits of clinical private practice, where my client base consists of individuals with an eclectic background of presenting problems. I continue to teach 1 or 2 classes per semester and when available enjoy enhancing my learning by attending clinical trainings or listening to podcasts on current trends in the field of social work or clinical practice. I enjoy spending quality time with my family and for self care am a “self taught” budding artist.

In conclusion, embracing a clinical perspective that integrates elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and Solution-Focused Interventions offers a holistic and client-centered approach to psychotherapy. By combining the strengths of each modality, I can create a therapeutic environment that fosters collaboration, empowerment, and positive change. In an ever-evolving field where no single approach fits all, the eclectic therapy style stands as a testament to the adaptability and creativity of therapists in meeting the diverse needs of their clients. I have used this approach in all areas of clinical practice and believe it allows me to enjoy the success of clinical social work practice.