He earned his Master of Arts in Psychology from the University of Rochester, where he also completed doctoral-level clinical psychology training in the Department of Clinical and Social Sciences in Psychology — one of the nation’s leading programs in the field. During this time, he worked directly under Edward Deci and Richard Ryan, the founders of Self-Determination Theory, a highly influential framework for understanding human motivation and well-being.

James has provided individual psychotherapy to adults navigating depression, anxiety, grief, and major life transitions. He has also co-led process groups and therapy groups focused on cognitive-behavioral approaches to depression and anxiety. His training included psychological assessment and extensive clinical supervision across both inpatient and outpatient settings.

Drawing from psychodynamic, Gestalt, person-centered, and cognitive-behavioral traditions, James integrates these methods with empirical research—particularly Self-Determination Theory—to help people live more meaningful, authentic, and self-directed lives. He believes that lasting change emerges when tailored approaches, the science of human motivation, and a genuine curiosity for each person’s unique story are brought into the therapeutic relationship.

James works with individual adults and welcomes people at any stage of their journey.