Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Jim’s introduction to health care began as a medic in the U.S. Army, where he developed a deep respect for service, responsibility, and care under pressure. After his military service, he completed certification training in group psychotherapy and began working in a youth program addressing teen substance use. Much of Jim’s professional experience has been in behavioral health and the treatment of substance abuse. Jim has facilitated intensive outpatient programs, provided DUI counseling, supported moderation management as an alternative to abstinence when appropriate, and served as an administrator of a detoxification program. He also assisted in the development of the Women’s Treatment Center in Chicago.
For the past fifteen years, Jim has worked in private practice, providing therapy for a broad range of concerns, including young adult issues, relationship challenges, couples therapy, substance-related concerns (including cannabis and alcohol), grief, life transitions, anxiety and panic disorders, depression, and LGBTQ+-related issues.
In addition, he has developed a strong specialty in couples therapy. Jim helps couples navigate infidelity, reduce conflict, improve communication, and learn to truly hear one another’s needs. He often supports couples in accepting differences and fostering mutual respect and personal growth. Jim has experience working with both heterosexual and same-sex couples.
Jim‘s goal is to help individuals and couples move toward healthier relationships—with others and with themselves—and toward lives that feel more balanced, meaningful, and hopeful.
At NorthStar Counseling Group, his approach to therapy is grounded in connection, safety, and collaboration. He works to join with each client in understanding their unique personal world, creating a therapeutic environment where they feel safe, respected, and supported in opening up. Building a strong therapeutic alliance is the foundation of effective work together, and he is committed to acting in his clients’ best interests as he addresses the challenges they bring to therapy.
Jim’s work is informed by a Positive Psychology perspective, emphasizing personal strengths, resilience, and what makes life meaningful. Rather than focusing solely on problems, he helps clients identify and build upon their existing strengths to create a more fulfilling and sustainable future.