Hello there! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years of experience. I graduated with both a BSW and MSW from San Diego State University and received my formal trauma training at Rady's Children's Hospital. Throughout my experience, I have worked in many capacities including private psychotherapy practice, teaching social work courses at SDSU, medical social work, home health, managed care and with a full range of treatment specialties. I appreciate using a strengths-based approach within a cultural context to best understand the unique needs of my clients.
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
During our first session together, I need to get to know my client and the problem that triggered the need for therapy. I do this by obtaining a comprehensive psychosocial assessment, through relational engagement and completing a risk assessment, if this is required.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
My greatest strength is my capacity to understand my clients and the interconnection of systems and relationships that have impacted their life. I offer genuine empathy and authenticity. I have a firm appreciate of my professions ethics strive to create a safe environment for anyone I work with.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
I enjoy working with clients of all ages and backgrounds. I feel that I always learn something new from my clients and appreciate the opportunity to be exposed to the wide spectrum of individuals I am fortunate to help.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I have over 25 years of experience working with individuals suffering from depression, anxiety and trauma. The ability to connect our thoughts to behaviors allows a person a sense of understanding and control over difficult circumstances in their life.
Culturally Sensitive Therapy
I have over 25 years of experience working with individuals suffering from depression, anxiety and trauma. The ability to connect our thoughts to behaviors with a culturally sensitive dynamic allows a person a sense of understanding and control over difficult circumstances in their life.
Interpersonal
I have over 25 years of experience working with individuals suffering from depression, anxiety and trauma. The ability to connect our thoughts to behaviors within an interpersonal context allows a person a sense of understanding and control over difficult circumstances in their life.
Strength-Based
I have over 25 years of experience working with individuals suffering from depression, anxiety and trauma. The ability to connect our thoughts to behaviors allows a person a sense of understanding and control over difficult circumstances in their life.
Trauma Informed Care
I have over 25 years of experience working with individuals suffering from depression, anxiety and trauma. The ability to connect our thoughts to behaviors allows a person a sense of understanding and control over difficult circumstances in their life.
8 ratings with written reviews
November 3, 2025
Cheryl has been a great therapist. She is kind but direct, easy to talk to, and full of practical, solution-oriented ideas to help you with whatever you're going through.
July 17, 2025
Cheryl was very intuitive and warm. She understood my challenges and their root cause. She had some suggestions on how to deal with my concerns. I felt a good connection with her.
July 17, 2025
I absolutely had an amazing first time counseling session with Ms. James And I cannot wait until my next session. She was absolutely warm, patient and made me feel really comfortable.