Hello, I am Dr. James Fishback, a licensed Clinical Psychologist. I have been working with children and adults in almost all decades of life, mainly in private practice, in schools, prisons, outdoor settings, and courts for 35 years. My therapy approach is first to deal with any immediate stress to help set up support and then work on the cause and resolution of their problems and issues at a pace they select.
My approach
I am all in as a therapist; I feel fortunate to use my trade to help others. I use a mix of clinical applications that I have developed over 35 years doing therapy, including cognitive-behavioral, dialectical-behavioral, psychodynamic, and existential therapy. This combination leads well into answers to the following life questions and all of their aspects: "Who am I?", "Where am I going?", "How is my empathy?", and "How is my intimacy"?
My focus
I focus on working with individuals to help them understand and acknowledge how each of them contributes to their own issues and to the resolution of them. In our problems, each of us plays a vital role, which often is not clear. I have treated hundreds of clients who suffer from stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, poor intimacy (sexual and non-sexual), abuse, and simply in general not knowing how to answer the questions in the above paragraph.
My communication style
I try to promote a very nonjudgemental, relaxed, interactive environment. I start with telling my clients a bit about myself and answering any questions they may have about me. I explain confidentiality and its exceptions (everything is private except a few exceptions). I think I listen well and try my best to be empathic and understanding of all my clients.
My journey to mental healthcare
I learned in high school and college that I was much more interested, effective, and happy working with people and their issues than with other things. I feel great satisfaction when I can help another person achieve their personal goals and develop greater happiness, control, and personal satisfaction. We can all succeed better in some of our biggest hurdles in life when a trusted, knowledgeable person is by our side.
My goals for you
I find it most helpful to address whatever goals clients have and in the order they prioritize them. That's always where I start -- they are in the driver's seat. If they have difficulty enunciating a goal, we set it up together. If they seem to be missing a goal, I let them know, but we don't go there until they want it and until they're ready.
My first session with you
I hope that they expect a very experienced clinician and a relaxed, nonjudgemental, and helpful atmosphere.