Benita James
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over about 20 years of experience providing mental health services both in person and virtually to children, adults, families, and couples. I hold a Master’s degree in Education with certifications in Mental Health and Substance Abuse.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 18 years of experience providing mental health services both in person and virtually to children, adults, families, and couples.
My clinical experience includes working with Substance Use Disorders, Anger Management, Grief, Low Self-Esteem, Autism, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma (including PTSD), and a wide range of other emotional and behavioral mood disorders challenges that impact a persons overall well-being. I value the importance of the in-person and virtual therapeutic experience and strive to bring that same level of connection, support, and presence to the sessions. My goal is to create a safe, meaningful, and effective space for healing and growth, no matter the setting.
First session
In our first session, I focus on gathering information, reasons for seeking services and getting to know the person on an individual level . This time is build a rapport and create a safe and comfortable environment where we can get to know one another and a person can relax and work on themself. My goal is to ensure you feel supported as we begin working together on your special and unique journey toward a healthier and more balanced lifestyle.
Strengths
My greatest strength is my compassion and my commitment to meeting clients exactly where they are. I believe in creating a non-judgmental, supportive and safe environment where the client can feel valued and understood. I view the therapeutic relationship as an equal partnership, with an emphasized on empowering clients by utilizing their existing strengths to help them manage and stabilize their emotions. This is centered around allowing clients to guide their own counseling experience as we work together learning to build effective coping skills while addressing life’s challenges. I strive to help clients identify the root causes of their struggles and collaborate with them to develop a personalized treatment plan and meaningful goals with tools that support a healthier lifestyle and overall well-being. Throughout the counseling process, we will consistently assess progress and needs to ensure the clients are moving towards the desired goals.
Ideal clients
The ideal client is someone who is open to a partnership with the willingness to explore their personal journey toward a healthier and more fulfilling life. While using a variety of therapeutic approaches and interventions tailored to each individual’s unique needs, believing therapy works best when it is collaborative and personalized. I enjoy working with children, adults, couples, and families who are experiencing life stressors, trauma, identity challenges, low self-worth, anxiety, depression, substance use concerns, PTSD, grief, anger, and other emotional or behavioral difficulties. My goal is to support clients as they develop insight, strengthen coping skills, and build a deeper understanding of themselves.
Treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Treatment in integrated several different approaches such as CBT, Person Centered, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment, trauma, mindfulness, family systems in different and unique therapeutic approaches along with therapeutic play therapy and role play with various therapeutic interventions.
Couples Counseling
Treatment is integrated several different approaches in couple counseling such as Communication Skills, Education on relationship skills and tools, encouraging respect, honesty and feeling safe to work together and implement learned skills.
Grief Therapy
Being genuine with active listening, warm acceptance meeting the client where they are in a non-judgemental environment. The approach is based on the client’s overseeing their own counseling experiences as we work together for them to gain the tools needed to manage their own emotional stability.
Person-centered (Rogerian)
The approach is based on the client’s overseeing their own counseling experiences as we collaborate working together for the client to gain the tools needed to manage their own emotional stability, independence and self.
Faith based therapy
The approach is based on the client’s overseeing their own counseling experiences as we collaborate working together for the client to gain the tools needed to manage their own emotional stability in an inner spiritual of non-denomination.
Location
Virtual sessions
In-person sessions900 Granby St, Norfolk, VA 23510, Suite 246-247