ABOUT
Marina James, MA, CBC
Therapy, Counseling, and Life Coaching for Individuals (Ages 13+), Sessions In-Person in Glenside, PA and Online.
Hi, My Name is Marina James
Behavioral Health Therapist and Life Coach
I work with various age groups and issues like anxiety, PTSD, trauma, and relationships. Relationship categories include people to achieve peace in families and friendships.
Relationship with food: bulimia, anorexia, obesity; I work with individuals who are considering Bariatric surgery, as well as those who had one and are not as successful in keeping the weight off as they would like.
Relationship with time: procrastination, lateness, and finding time for everything you want when there is never enough. My goal is to help you stop feeling overwhelmed and depressed and start helping you make progress towards your goals.
My Journey To Becoming A Therapist
I'm no different from the clients I see. Like everyone else, I'm human. I've been through both wonderful and challenging experiences that have shaped who I am and how I help.
I came to this country at fifteen. I had to future out my identity while learning a language and navigating a new culture. I was told I had "no tack," which made me shut down for many years and become incredibly self-conscious.
In addition, every few months, my energy levels went up and down. I did not realize until much later that I have had Bipolar.
Since I learned to navigate life, timing my depression cycles to rest more and my manic times to complete many projects. Living with fibromyalgia for 20 years has also taught me the importance of self-care.
However, I started my journey of self-care later in life.
I realized: "I must come before others, or there will not be an "I" to help others."
For many years I identified as a mother. When my 11 kids (yes, eleven) were teenagers and older, it dawned on me that I was taking care of everyone and killing myself.
At that time, in 2015, I was 290Lb and had no energy, little joy, and tons of physical pain. After bariatric surgery, I lost half of my body weight and found my whole self! I went back to college and continued my education.
I also realized that I am the only one that can take care of me! This gave me direction in life that I still follow and bring to others.
My life experiences led me to become the Therapist I am today
Helping People Is A Gift To Others,
But Also To Myself
Being a Therapist is an honor. I love guiding people towards figuring stuff out and witnessing them achieve more fulfilling lives. The most rewarding thing about being a Therapist is knowing that I had a part in helping someone else transform their life.
I am committed to helping you make progress towards your goals.
My personal promise to you: "You will leave every session refreshed, with the weight off your shoulders, and with an assignment to help you reach your goals."
I Have A Genuine Interest In Others And Bring An Open Mind And Flexibility In World Views To Sessions
I have a natural ability to
Understand people's experiences.
Uncover what's under the surface.
Collaborate with people to set goals and help them reach them.
Help clients heal their past and manage the present.
People who know me often say that I am a good listener who can be fully present for people's stories, even if they are difficult stories.
Our Sessions Are Focused On You
Sessions will provide you with the space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and goals. In feeling safe and comfortable, you'll be able to be yourself and explore your thoughts, feelings, and goals.
It's important to me to provide a non-judgmental space where you can be yourself and focus on setting goals and working on reaching them together. There isn't a "one size fits all" approach to Therapy, Counseling, life Coaching. Our sessions will fit your specific needs and concerns.
As A Therapist
I Embrace The Following Philosophies
I believe that there is no shame in asking for help.
I believe that change is possible when you allow yourself the space to do the work.
I believe that therapy should address the person as a whole - their mind, body, and spirit.
I believe that people underestimate their ability to change. It's possible to change. It's possible to enjoy life again.
I believe that the biggest thing standing in your way is the fear that life always has to be the way that it is now.
My Professional Background
Until my younger children became teenagers my main job was being a mother and running Marina’s Kids non-profit organization, working with orphans in Ukraine.
In 2017 I went back and completed my undergraduate degree in General Psychology (2019) from Regent University. Shortly after I enrolled into Capella University and earned Master of Science in Psychology (2020).
At this time, I am continuing education at Grand Canyon University for PhD in General Psychology with emphasis on Cognition and Instruction. Expected Graduation Date: 2024.
Parallel to PhD Studies I Have Been Working on Certification Programs
2021
American Association of Bariatric Counselors
2022
IAP Career College Certified Life Coach
2023
MindValley Certified Hypnotherapist
Let’s Discover How I Can Help
Start rising above what you are going through. Get your FREE phone consultation where you can share what’s going on for you and we can explore how I can help.
Email me today at [email protected], or text 267-982-4444.
I'm here for you.
Reach Out For Your Free 15-Minute Consultation
[email protected]
Text 267-982-4444
(I will reply to all communication within 24 hours, Wednesday - Saturday)