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James Cline

James Cline

LCSW

Therapist in California

Practical, experienced therapist focused on change

Continue with James
  • Experience 30 years
  • Languages English
  • Sessions Online
  • Goal oriented
  • Direct communication
  • Skills focused

About James

James Cline is a licensed clinical social worker with 30 years of experience in psychotherapy. He blends practical approaches to help people who are dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship strain, or feelings of isolation and loneliness. He encourages straightforward conversation and goal-oriented steps during sessions.

He holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master of Social Work from the University of Iowa. James has worked with both individuals and groups and centers his work on helping people recognize unhelpful thinking and take small steps toward change. Sessions focus on clear, manageable strategies rather than abstract theory.

In practice he uses approaches derived from Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, helping people spot patterns of thinking that increase distress and replace them with more helpful habits. He also addresses communication problems, control issues, guilt and shame, and questions about life purpose.

James brings a straightforward, problem-solving style to conversations about trauma, panic attacks, social anxiety, and other concerns. He aims to make therapy practical and relevant to day-to-day life. His years of work include leading groups as well as individual sessions, giving him a broad perspective on coping and recovery.

People who want to try therapy with James can expect a focus on thinking patterns, behavior change, and skills they can use between meetings. He works in California and meets with English-speaking clients, including those located outside the United States.

How James Uses CBT Online

James uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help people notice thoughts and habits that make problems worse and then practice new ways of thinking and acting. CBT is useful for anxiety, panic attacks, depression, panic, and social anxiety because it breaks issues into specific thoughts and behaviors that can be changed.

He also draws on principles from Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, which focuses on identifying rigid beliefs that lead to distress and testing them with real-life steps. That approach helps when people struggle with guilt, shame, control issues, or harsh self-judgment.

Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. The therapist will discuss goals, preferences, and what has or hasn’t worked before, then tailor techniques to the person’s needs. Expect some trial and adjustment as the plan is refined together.

Confirm current session options before booking, since specific formats are not listed here. Online therapy can make it easier to fit sessions into a busy life, require less travel, allow shorter check-ins when needed, and offer more flexibility around work or family schedules. Licensed professionals help clients practice skills between meetings so progress continues outside scheduled sessions.

License and NPI

LCSW California · No. 15152
NPI1972510584

As shown on the therapist's profile. You can check a license with the state board and an NPI with the national registry.

Areas of expertise

Primary focus

Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression

Also works with

Therapeutic approaches

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Experience

30+ years

Credentials

California

Languages

English

Frequently asked questions

What concerns does James commonly address?

He works with stress, anxiety, depression, addictions, trauma and abuse, relationship and family issues, and concerns related to LGBT identity. He also focuses on isolation and loneliness and social anxiety.

What is his general therapy style?

He uses a direct, problem-solving approach that emphasizes changing unhelpful thoughts and behaviors. Sessions tend to focus on clear steps and practical skills people can use between meetings.

How much clinical experience does he have?

He has 30 years of experience as an LCSW working in both individual and group settings. That background informs his focus on real-world coping strategies.

What credentials and region are listed?

He is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California and trained with a BS in Psychology and an MSW from the University of Iowa.

Which languages are available for sessions?

Sessions are offered in English.

Can people outside the United States work with him?

International clients are accepted, so people located outside the U.S. may be able to arrange sessions.

How are fees handled?

Cost varies with location and therapist availability; sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.

What steps should someone take to begin?

Select the Start Therapy button, complete the short matching questionnaire, and then schedule according to therapist availability.

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