- Anger management
- Stress and anxiety
- CBT and ACT
About James
Dr. James Smith is a South Carolina licensed independent social worker with clinical practice (SC LISW-CP) and 32 years of experience. He works with adults who are dealing with stress, anxiety, anger, relationship strain, depression, and life changes. He also addresses addictions, trauma and abuse, and intimacy-related concerns.
He frames clients as the experts on their own story. He helps people use their strengths to handle problems that keep coming up. Sessions focus on clear, practical steps rather than jargon. The tone is direct and problem-focused so people can see progress in day-to-day life.
Dr. Smith uses several evidence-informed approaches such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness-based work. Those methods are used to reduce reactivity, notice patterns, and try new behaviors. He also draws on Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Client-Centered Therapy when they fit the issue.
Typical sessions will include talking through recent situations, identifying what provokes anger or anxiety, and trying short exercises to shift thoughts and actions. Homework or practice between sessions is often part of the work to build different habits. The aim is to give practical tools people can use at work and at home.
He has additional focus areas that include autism and Asperger syndrome, blended family issues, caregiver stress, communication problems, codependency, and concerns related to gender dysphoria, HIV/AIDS, and first responder stress. Sessions are offered in English and are based in South Carolina.
Therapeutic approaches and online sessions
Dr. Smith commonly uses Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in his work. ACT helps people notice difficult thoughts and feelings without getting stuck in them, then pick actions that match their values. CBT focuses on the link between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and teaches practical skills to change unhelpful patterns and reduce reactivity.He also blends client-centered listening and mindfulness exercises to slow down strong emotions and build awareness. Figuring out which approach fits best is part of the early sessions. He will work with each person to decide which methods feel most useful based on goals and what happens in practice.
If you prefer online sessions, confirm the exact formats offered before booking since the profile does not list session types. Online work can make scheduling easier, allow shorter check-ins during a busy day, and reduce travel time. It also makes it simpler to keep up with regular practice and apply skills between sessions, which is often an important part of managing anger and stress.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
32+ years
Listed in
South Carolina
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What concerns does he address related to anger?
He works with anger alongside stress, anxiety, relationship strain, depression, addictions, trauma, and intimacy concerns.
What is his therapy style like?
He uses direct, practical sessions that focus on identifying triggers, testing new responses, and practicing skills between meetings.
How much experience does he have?
He has 32 years of professional experience working with adults on anger, coping, and related problems.
What are his credentials and where is he based?
He holds the SC LISW-CP credential and practices in South Carolina.
Does he offer sessions in other languages or to international clients?
Sessions are offered in English and he is not currently accepting international clients.
What session formats are used?
Confirm current session options before booking, as session formats are not specified in the profile.
How is cost handled?
Costs vary with location and sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
How do I begin working with him?
Use the See online therapy options button, complete the short matching questionnaire, and schedule a first session.