Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Affiliations
Executive Positions
Trauma Trainings
State Licensures
Counseling Experience
Leadership Training Seminars
Research
Timeline
Volunteer
Elizabeth James, MA

Elizabeth James, MA

Hingham,MA

Summary

Conscientious professional with extensive experience advocating for individuals and families' social and economic well-being. Skilled at providing guidance, support, and assistance. Strong communication and management skills and committed to inspiring community service.

As a counselor specializing in trauma, addiction, depression, and anxiety, to name a few, I am a passionate advocate for holistic well-being. I blend my expertise in psychology, neuropsychology, and education to create a transformative, informed healing experience that is relevant to each client's " customization" in a word.

I have a holistic approach that transcends traditional boundaries, fostering healing at the intersection of neurobiology and pharmaceuticals - brain-based physiology, integrating education of the latest research, and, most importantly, the embodied wisdom of faith. My commitment to whole-person wellness has given hope to many seeking transformative change in all age groups, crossing cultural barriers by speaking to the commonalities impacted by dis-ease whether it is addiction or mental illness: we all have a brain, we all feel with our heart and soul and can strengthen the emotional, physical and spiritual balance for total personal wellbeing. I will utilize various resources to identify the needs of vulnerable populations and assist them.

I am a seasoned counselor with over twenty-five years of dedication to human beings' care and welfare: serving others and walking with them in their pain to the joy of living again. My practice combines scientific evidence-based practices and natural medicines practiced for centuries, and all are not contrary to my Christian faith.

I welcome you to look into my counseling-coaching whole health model integrating spirituality for a return to what is truly alive and authentic humanity and health.

Overview

39
39
years of professional experience

Work History

Mental Health & Addiction Counselor, pre licensed

Nantucket Behavioral Health
Nantucket, MA
01.2005 - 06.2005
  • Enhanced client well-being by implementing evidence-based counseling techniques and treatment plans.
  • Increased patient satisfaction by providing empathetic, supportive, and non-judgmental counseling sessions.
  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive treatment plans for clients'' diverse needs.
  • Maintained confidentiality and upheld ethical standards in all interactions with clients, families, and colleagues.
  • Utilized motivational interviewing techniques to encourage clients'' active participation in their treatment process.
  • Managed caseloads efficiently while adhering to strict deadlines for case notes submission, improving overall team productivity.
  • Offered individual outpatient therapy to adult clients with wide range of psychological problems.
  • Conducted psychological assessments for adults to help address variety of clinical concerns
  • Collaborated with 4 other person in a multidisciplinary treatment team to discuss treatment plans, progress and discharge decisions.
  • Used imaging and relaxation techniques to develop strengthening and safe zones to facilitate processing of trauma.
  • Wrote reports on clients and maintained required paperwork.
  • Compiled detailed client histories using intake forms, interviews and assessments to build complete picture for determining optimal therapeutic approaches.
  • Assisted clients with gaining insights, establishing clear goals and planning strategies to reach personal targets.
  • Evaluated patients' goals, as well as mental and practical conditions, to develop individualized courses of treatment.
  • Managed patients with substance dependence and co-occurring Axis I and Axis II disorders.
  • Trained in techniques such as stress reduction therapy to contributed to lasting recovery success.
  • Reduced relapse occurrences by conducting regular follow-ups and reinforcing coping strategies.
  • Assisted clients in identifying triggers and developing personalized coping mechanisms, reducing the risk of relapse.

Crisis Counselor Advocacy for Women

A Safe Place
01.2005 - 06.2005
  • In areas of women's domestic violence advocacy, therapies and networking for housing and other emergency needs
  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to create comprehensive care plans, addressing clients' mental health, social, legal, and emotional needs.
  • Improved overall client satisfaction by maintaining high professionalism and always adhering to confidentiality guidelines.
  • Prevent further escalation of crises by effectively de-escalating intense situations through skilled verbal interventions.
  • Monitored clients' progress under care to ensure successful outcomes and timely resolution of issues.
  • Conducted post-crisis evaluations to identify areas for improvement, implementing necessary changes based on feedback from clients and staff members.
  • Served as an advocate for clients when interacting with external agencies or organizations involved in their care plan process.
  • Maintained accurate documentation following each client interaction, ensuring continuity of care while upholding ethical standards set forth by regulatory bodies.
  • Managed high-stress situations with a calm demeanor, providing the necessary support to both clients and team members during challenging times.
  • Built safety plans to lower crisis risk and intervened in specific manners outlined by procedures.
  • Used active listening and collaborative problem-solving daily to connect with patients and address concerns.
  • Documented risks to each client in context of concerns.
  • Determined clients' risk of self-harm or other dangerous behaviors.
  • Listened to clients' concerns and provided encouragement and support.
  • Supported individuals dealing with mental health and emotional issues and adapted counseling to suit their needs.
  • Displayed sensitivity to the cultural and linguistic needs of clients and families served. Portuguese subculture.
  • Developed treatment plans to help clients build self-confidence and resilience.
  • Supported individuals with legal, physical, or mental health concerns in dealing with routine needs and complex problems.

Self Employed Counseling & Pastoral Services

S.S. Mental Health,Wellness & Pastoral Counseling
Greater Boston Area
06.1998 - Current
  • As a thought leader, I utilized telehealth over two decades ago to enhance client satisfaction, comfort, and privacy. Achieving this goal by providing empathetic and professional, pastoral, mental health counseling services & whole health wellness coaching tailored to motivate the thought process of individuals to integrate their spiritual, mind, and body needs.
  • Accomplished advanced degrees in psychology and integrative health two decades before "integrative healthcare" became in the mind of the general population
  • Performed innovative techniques for clients with a counseling and coaching model of whole health therapy and education.
  • Interacted with focus and compassion with clients to build connections and nurture relationships for goal specific outcomes for their growth; mental health, physical health & spiritual health.
  • Solely responsible for all the design and marketing strategies to reach in need clientele.
  • Developed comprehensive case management plans for clients.
  • Promoted a positive, inclusive environment by organizing many support groups and meditational workshops focused on transforming pain and trauma at the highest levels.
  • Developed a new soulful mind-body connectivity contemplative meditation technique - Neshama Meditation; " soul meditation" envisioning in advance the technocratic disconnected majority in society through the nineties and beyond.
  • Evaluated client progress through regular assessments, adjusting counseling strategies to build a trusting and effective client-counselor relationship.
  • Designed innovative outreach programs to engage underserved populations in accessing mental health services and pastoral counseling.
  • Conducted thorough intake interviews and accurately assessed their needs for proper placement within a range of mind, body, and spiritual "whole health counseling and coaching model" utilizing motivational evidence-based practices.
  • Implemented evidence-based interventions for clients experiencing various challenges such as substance abuse, grief and loss, and trauma recovery, among others with comorbidities.
  • Maintained strong working relationships with client's family members, encouraging transparency and collaboration.
  • Participated in community events to promote services and engage with the public.
  • Utilize Motivational Interviewing, CBT, and a client-centered approach integrating mind-body relaxation-stress reduction, prayer, and body-based therapies

*Current in many EHS systems: KIPU, Aspire,TherapyNote

* NARCAN training

  • Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
  • Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
  • Passionate about learning and committed to continual improvement.
  • Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
  • Worked flexible hours across night, weekend and holiday shifts.
  • Paid attention to detail while completing assignments.
  • Developed and maintained courteous and effective working relationships.

College of Liberal Arts Adjunct Professor

Quincy
Quincy, MA
09.1995 - 10.2013
  • Enhanced student comprehension by incorporating real-life examples and relatable scenarios into culturally appropriate lectures.
  • Developed innovative teaching methods, leading to increased student engagement and improved retention rates.
  • Mentored students during office hours, resulting in higher academic achievement and personal growth.
  • Mentored senior staff in online technologies for syllabus, classwork, and student interactions
  • Evaluated student performance through formative and summative assessments, groups, and teams, providing valuable feedback for growth and improvement.
  • Implemented technology-based tools to supplement traditional instruction methods, improving overall learning experiences for students.
  • Boosted class participation rates by fostering a positive and collaborative learning environment.
  • Enhanced, on average, 30 student comprehension by employing diverse teaching methods and incorporating multimedia resources with students with English as a second language
  • Strengthened critical thinking skills in students through the incorporation of problem-based learning activities.

Executive Director

W.O.W. – Women On Wellness- WholeHealth Consulting
01.2008 - 06.2013
  • Consultations: Assessments for adolescents and adult women’s nutritional, mental health, and spiritual fitness. Spoke to leadership in education and corporate facilitation of materials to better serve their communities on issues of wellness in diverse topics and complimentary medicines: light, sound, organics, bio-energy of bodies physics, spiritual soulful resuscitation techniques
  • Developed strategic partnerships
  • Led successful fundraising campaigns, securing critical resources
  • Spearheaded new program initiatives to address unmet community needs and advance the organization's mission: newsletters and public site initiatives.
  • Evaluated program outcomes, identifying areas for improvement and implementing targeted interventions.
  • Advocated locally and nationally to further support the organization's goals and objectives.
  • Presented regularly at conferences or industry events showcasing integrative health initiatives and education.
  • Collaborated with external organizations, including non-profits and businesses, to create mutually beneficial partnerships and awareness of teen performing arts crisis of drugs over nutritional education
  • Set organizational goals and objectives to guide, direct, focus, and achieve mission fulfillment.
  • Represented the organization to the public by giving presentations and speeches and participating in community events.
  • Advocated for teen obesity and targeted performing artists' body imaging and cons of pharmaceutical industries media campaigns, especially to young women.
  • Created promotional materials and provided insightful information on websites and print media to educate the public.
  • Oversaw marketing, advertising, and new development of educational presentational materials for the PA industry

Women’s & Children's Advocate

P.A.C.T. People Against Child Trade - Non Profit
01.2009 - 12.2012
  • Public speaking to 100 members of Congress and Pastors on new legislation against sex trafficking of minors issue in America.
  • Assisted clients in identifying community resources and connecting with appropriate services.
  • Collaborated with other professionals to plan and coordinate new legislation and identify appropriate needs for children sex trafficked
  • Developed and maintained strong relationships with community resources for successful referrals to sympathizers parties to advance our mission to educate and provide more demand-side legislation to deter "buyers."
  • Utilized evidence-based practices to provide practical educational seminars, consults, and media presentations to members of Congress and community and pastoral leadership.
  • Implemented community outreach programs to promote education and awareness of human trafficking within the domestic U.S.
  • Managed relationships with elected officials and their staff to facilitate open lines of communication regarding policy concerns.
  • Developed and delivered presentations to a diverse range of audiences, promoting understanding and support for critical advocacy initiatives.

Theology Teacher Long Term Substitute

Notre Dame Academy
01.2002 - 05.2002
  • Enhanced student comprehension by utilizing visual aids, multimedia presentations, and hands-on activities in lesson plans.
  • Established a positive learning environment through effective classroom management strategies and clear expectations for 25 students.
  • Inspired students to explore their spirituality by incorporating religious perspectives into lessons.
  • Fostered a positive learning environment by creating supportive relationships with students and addressing behavioral issues promptly and effectively.

Clinical Supervision

Private Therapist, Phoebe Teare, LMHC
01.1998 - 05.1998
  • Enhanced client well-being by conducting comprehensive mental health assessments and developing individualized treatment plans.
  • Improved clients coping skills through the implementation of evidence-based therapeutic interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy.
  • Increased client engagement in therapy by building rapport and utilizing active listening techniques during individual counseling sessions.
  • Promoted clients' self-awareness and personal growth through the use of reflective exercises and goal-setting activities.
  • Completed one-on-one counseling with children with autism and their families

Real Estate Sales Associate

Kelliher & Associates
04.1988 - 05.1989
  • Conducted market research for dozens of properties
  • Luxury rentals in Back Bay Boston
  • Conducted open houses to showcase properties, generating interest and attracting potential buyers.
  • Collaborated with fellow real estate agents to share listings and find the perfect match for buyers and sellers.
  • Expanded client base by actively participating in industry-related organizations and events, fostering local real estate community connections.

Financial Analyst Statistical Assistant

Massachusetts Financial Services
01.1985 - 05.1986
  • Statistical financial reporting for better decision-making with clear, concise analysis and presentations.
  • Identified the number one fund and market trend for the company in the "International Annuity Fund" which profited many clients through their brokers whom I consulted and communicated my analysis of the global market trend.
  • Increased stakeholder satisfaction by delivering timely, accurate financial information tailored to their specific needs.

Education

Certification in Alcohol & Drugs Counseling - LADAC I Certification

Cambridge College, MA
Cambridge, MA
05.2024

Masters - Psychology & Integrative Counseling

Norwich University
Northfield
01.1999

Masters Level Urban Teachers Education Program - Urban Education And Leadership

Wheelock College
Brookline
08.1996

BS Psychology - Neuropsychology

Boston University
Boston, MA
06.1996

Certification in Cognitive Behavioral Health - Behavioral Sciences

Harvard University Medical School,Mind Body Clinic
Brookline, Ma
06.1993

Intensive in Economics - Economics of The European Union EU

London School of Economics
London England
06.1991

Skills

  • Problem-Solving
  • Active Listening
  • Multi-media and Social Media Presentations
  • Assessment
  • Public Speaking
  • Motivational Interviewing
  • ACT, CBT
  • Faith-based counseling & Advisement for mental health, families, teens, and addiction
  • Self Motivation
  • Problem-solving aptitude
  • Effective Communication
  • Reliability
  • CPR, First Aid, CANS
  • EHR's - KIPU, Aspire, TherapyNote
  • Attention to Detail
  • Team building
  • Strategic Planning
  • Child development expertise
  • Mental health awareness

Affiliations

  • National Leadership Association, Presidential Member 2024
  • National Association of Christian Ministers 2024
  • Holy Name Society 2024
  • WIPP Women Influencing Public Policy 2012-2023
  • APA American Psychological Association 2012-2022
  • American Psychological Association 2014-2016
  • AACC American Association of Christian Counselors 2014-2016

Executive Positions

  • Executive Director, P.A.C.T - People Against Child Trade, NY, NY
  • Executive Director, W.O.W - Women On Wellness-Consulting, Greater Boston Area


Trauma Trainings

Supporting Survivors of Sexual Assault. Massachusetts Coalition Against Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence

Equipt to Serve. Intensive crisis pregnancy training.  

State Licensures

  • #536663, Massachusetts Licensure in Health & Wellness
  • LADAC I In process, Summer 2024
  • National Association of Christian Ministers. Board Certification Pastoral Counseling

Counseling Experience

  • A Safe Place, Crisis Counselor/Advocacy in area of domestic violence, Nantucket, MA
  • Nantucket Behavioral Health, Clinical Counselor, Nantucket, MA
  • Private Therapist, Clinical Supervision, Whiting Street, Hingham, MA, 1999

Leadership Training Seminars

  • Motivational Coaching for Women in Leadership
  • Leadership with a Conscience: Ethics
  • Physics of Compassion: Science and Spirituality are not mutually exclusive

Research

Boston University, Research Split Brain & Corpus Colloseum, 1989

Timeline

Women’s & Children's Advocate

P.A.C.T. People Against Child Trade - Non Profit
01.2009 - 12.2012

Executive Director

W.O.W. – Women On Wellness- WholeHealth Consulting
01.2008 - 06.2013

Mental Health & Addiction Counselor, pre licensed

Nantucket Behavioral Health
01.2005 - 06.2005

Crisis Counselor Advocacy for Women

A Safe Place
01.2005 - 06.2005

Theology Teacher Long Term Substitute

Notre Dame Academy
01.2002 - 05.2002

Self Employed Counseling & Pastoral Services

S.S. Mental Health,Wellness & Pastoral Counseling
06.1998 - Current

Clinical Supervision

Private Therapist, Phoebe Teare, LMHC
01.1998 - 05.1998

College of Liberal Arts Adjunct Professor

Quincy
09.1995 - 10.2013

Real Estate Sales Associate

Kelliher & Associates
04.1988 - 05.1989

Financial Analyst Statistical Assistant

Massachusetts Financial Services
01.1985 - 05.1986

Certification in Alcohol & Drugs Counseling - LADAC I Certification

Cambridge College, MA

Masters - Psychology & Integrative Counseling

Norwich University

Masters Level Urban Teachers Education Program - Urban Education And Leadership

Wheelock College

BS Psychology - Neuropsychology

Boston University

Certification in Cognitive Behavioral Health - Behavioral Sciences

Harvard University Medical School,Mind Body Clinic

Intensive in Economics - Economics of The European Union EU

London School of Economics
Elizabeth James, MA