LISA JAMES, RP (Qualifying)
I bring both professional training and real-life experience to my work. Alongside trainings in couples therapy, trauma, grief, addiction, anxiety and ADHD, I’ve lived many of the transitions my clients face—career changes, blended family life, returning to school later in life, loss, long-term partnership, and parenting at different stages. Above all, I embrace our clinic’s motto—healing happens through collaboration and connection—because that is who we are and how we work. We are family, and we are united in our passion for helping people live full, rich, fulfilled lives through optimizing mental and physical health.
WHAT ITS LIKE TO WORK TOGETHER
Our work together is collaborative and shaped by you—your pace, your needs, and what feels most important to explore. Some sessions may feel focused and intentional, while others are more open, allowing space to reflect, process, or simply arrive as you are.
Some clients prefer the consistency of ongoing weekly or bi-weekly sessions, while others reach out during times of stress, transition, or when something feels off or stuck. There’s no one right way to do this.
I don’t measure progress by a set number of sessions. Often, what brings you in shifts over time. My role is to walk alongside you as that unfolds, offering a steady, thoughtful presence so you don’t have to navigate it alone.
MY STORY
I call myself the “accidental psychotherapist.” My path wasn’t a deliberate career plan, but a journey of following my curiosity. After many years of practising law, I returned to university in 2016 to study my longtime interests: psychology and neuroscience. What began as part-time online coursework quickly evolved into a dedicated degree. Today, I am thrilled to practice alongside my two brilliant daughters—a possibility I never imagined when I first stepped back into the classroom. This is what happens when you dare to follow your curiosity!
EDUCATION
MA Counselling Psychology
Lisa completed a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University including an 8 month clinical placement that included both in person and virtual counselling with a range of populations and presenting issues.
Part-time Studies in Psychology and Neuroscience
Lisa studied psychology and neuroscience part-time at Carleton University including courses in developmental psychology, psychopharmacology and cellular and molecular neuroscience.
Law (LLM and JD)
Lisa attended Osgoode Hall Law School at York University to earn both a JD and a Masters of Law in Intellectual Property law. Lisa attended the University of Western Ontario for undergraduate studies prior to law school.
My Path to Practice: Beyond the academics
While my formal credentials provide the foundation of my work, my approach is deeply informed by a lifetime of informal study and personal evolution.
A Longstanding Curiosity
Well before beginning my formal psychological training, I was a student of the human experience. My interest in how we navigate adversity led me to dive deep into neuroscience, philosophy, and mindfulness. I sought out everything from memoirs to professional-level continuing education in order to understand the mechanics of various approaches from the inside out.
The Power of Perspective
Through years of study and practice of mindfulness, I developed a perspective that I bring into the therapy room. This personal history helps me help you:
Gain distance from intrusive thoughts.
Recognize that perspectives are shaped by experience, not just reality.
Focus on what is within your control.
Practice self-compassion while navigating pain.
Navigating Career & Life Transitions
I understand the challenges of "starting over" firsthand. At age 32, I pivoted my legal career to better serve my young family, returning to school for a Master’s degree and building a specialized "virtual" practice long before it was the norm. I know the courage it takes to re-orient your life, develop new skills, and balance professional ambitions with personal values.
My Personal Foundations
I am a firm believer in "preventative" mental health—practicing coping techniques when things are calm so they are ready when life feels heavy. Outside of the clinic, I rely on the same restorative tools I often recommend: the rhythm of walking and exercise, the uplifting power of music, and the essential support of friendship and family.
Lisa brings both professional training and lived experience to her work. Alongside training in couples therapy, trauma, grief, addiction, anxiety, and ADHD, she has navigated many of the life transitions you may be facing. She creates a thoughtful, grounded space to explore your story, understand what has shaped you, and move forward with greater clarity and confidence.
We provide secure virtual psychotherapy appointments throughout Ontario and within Simcoe County — Orillia, Gravenhurst, Barrie, Midland, Bracebridge, Collingwood, Coldwater, Washago, Oro-Medonte.