My path to becoming a therapist began outside the world of mental health, giving me a broader lens and a deep respect for the complexity of people’s stories. With an MBA from George Washington University, I spent years working for major global firms—until I realized my true purpose was helping people heal. Nearly a decade ago, I returned to school to pursue my second master’s degree in mental health counseling, fully committing to this work. Since then, I’ve supported clients in a wide range of settings: residential treatment centers, a psychiatric hospital during the height of COVID, and for over three years, individuals navigating the criminal justice system. For the past few years, I’ve continued that work in private practice. These experiences have shaped not only my clinical skill set, but my unwavering belief in the resilience of the human spirit. No matter where you’ve been, you deserve care that’s grounded in empathy, respect, and a commitment to real change.

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

If you're feeling unsure or overwhelmed, that’s okay—reaching out is a big step, and you don’t have to have it all figured out. Send me a quick text, and we can set up a brief call to talk through what this might look like. Your first session isn’t about pressure—it’s about connection. We’ll use that time to get to know each other and see if we’re a good fit. You don’t need to prepare anything; just come as you are. My goal is to create a space where you feel heard, supported, and safe to begin exploring what matters most to you. We’ll start with a thorough assessment to understand what’s bringing you in, then outline a personalized Case Plan—a flexible roadmap designed around your needs, goals, and readiness. This helps us stay focused while leaving room for growth, insight, and change as you evolve. Each session begins with a simple check-in, where you choose what feels most important to work on. I’ll guide the process so that you’re never navigating alone. Whether we’re addressing pain, negative patterns, or possibilities, the work will always center on your voice, your pace, and your goals. If you’ve been waiting for the “right time,” maybe this is it. Change doesn't have to be loud or dramatic—it starts with one clear decision to do things differently. I’m here to help you take that first step—and every step after that—in a way that feels grounded and empowering.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

We’re all on our own path—and at times, we need support that truly meets us where we are. Therapy should reflect the uniqueness of the person seeking it. That’s why I go beyond traditional talk therapy, combining real-life perspective with advanced training and thousands of hours of experience in trauma-focused work. Having navigated my own journey of growth and transformation, I bring not only clinical expertise, but a deep understanding of how challenging—and ultimately rewarding—this process can be. That lived insight helps me connect with clients in a way that is both compassionate and practical, offering a space that honors your experience while moving you toward real change. My approach is dynamic and client-centered. With extensive training in multiple evidence-based modalities, I’m able to adjust in the moment to ensure each session aligns with your goals and needs. We’ll focus on what’s most meaningful to you, making our work together both intentional and effective. You won’t be handed a one-size-fits-all treatment or expected to fit into someone else’s framework. Instead, we’ll explore your story together—at your pace—with curiosity, clarity, and a commitment to helping you reconnect with your most authentic self. If you’re ready to take the next step, I’m here to walk alongside you.

Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.

I work with people who are ready to take bold steps toward change—those who know there’s more to life than just surviving, and are willing to do the inner work to reclaim it. Real transformation starts with ownership of your journey, and I’m here to walk alongside you with compassion, strategy, and a process tailored to your unique path. Together, we’ll move beyond surface-level coping and into powerful, lasting change. Here’s what we’ll work on: 1. Heal and Find Closure – Gently process past experiences to release emotional burdens and open the door to lasting relief. 2. Rediscover Your Authentic Self – Reconnect with who you truly are beneath the pain, roles, and survival strategies. 3. Build Meaningful Connections – Strengthen your ability to form deeper, more fulfilling relationships—with others and yourself. 4. Communicate with Confidence – Learn to navigate difficult conversations with clarity, emotional honesty, and self-respect. 5. Strengthen Integrity and Boundaries – Define what it means to live in alignment with your values, and protect that space with healthy boundaries. 6. Deepen Your Experience of Intimacy – Cultivate emotional safety and vulnerability that supports real, authentic connection. 7. Commit to Ongoing Growth – Create a sustainable framework for continued evolution, healing, and self-discovery. You don’t have to do this alone. With a structured, evidence-based, and deeply human approach, I’ll help you move forward with clarity, strength, and a renewed sense of identity. If you’re ready to reclaim your life, let’s take this journey—together.

About James Trinnaman