Michael James

LCSW, EMDR-IT, EFT-T
Accepting Clients

Beneath anxiety, distance, and self-doubt are attachment-shaped patterns. This work brings them into the light and gently reshapes them.

Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Plano, TX

About My Clients

Partner 1: “I reach for you, but it feels like you’re already gone.” I’m left wondering if I matter to you at all.” Partner 2: “When you come close, I feel the pressure to be perfect, so I pull back to protect us both.” These unspoken messages leave couples lonely and stuck. I help break this anxious–avoidant cycle so partners feel safe, seen, and deeply connected again.

My Background and Approach

After nine years serving in the U.S. Coast Guard, I realized my deepest fulfillment came not from fixing electronics, but from walking with people. Leaving the military was not a departure from service—it was a continuation of it. I pursued social work and theological training to better support people in their most important relationships. Today, my practice is devoted to couples counseling and trauma-informed care. Drawing primarily from Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and EMDR, I help couples slow conflict, understand what drives disconnection, and emotional safety. As a veteran and seminary-trained therapist, I bring structure, compassion, and steady hope—meeting clients with respect, grace, and a belief in lasting change.

My Personal Beliefs and Interests

I specialize in thoughtful assessment and clear clinical conceptualization. I take time to understand a couple’s unique negative cycle and how trauma-driven maladaptive core beliefs shape emotions, behaviors, and relationships, so our work is focused and effective rather than reactive. Many clients seek me out because they value integrating a Christian worldview into therapy. I approach this with grace, acceptance, and honesty—you are welcome to show up as you are, without masks or pressure to be “perfect.” My faith supports unconditional positive regard and meeting clients where they are. I continue to learn through formal, post-graduate training in evidence-based models. I have completed the EFCT Externship (ICEEFT) and EMDR training (EMDRIA), a level of advanced training reached by less than .5% of therapists. I am currently pursuing certification in both, which involves submitting real clinical work for review to support accountability and growth.

Insurance Plans Accepted
  • Aetna
  • Cigna
  • Oscar
  • Optum
  • United Healthcare
  • UMR
  • AvMed
  • Cigna/Evernorth
  • Quest Behavioral Health
I offer online counseling in the following states:
I have experience with the following
  • Christianity

At A Glance

  • Experience: 8 years of practice
  • Languages: English
  • Rate: $150 - 200/session

Info

Email Michael
1820 Preston Park Blvd, Suite 2200
Plano, TX 75093
15950 Dallas Pkwy, Suite 400
Addison, TX 75001

Reach out to Michael