Jim Borgardt LMFT
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist, licensed in the state of California since 2008. I received my Bachelor of Art in Psychology from UCLA in 2002 and my Masters in Art from Antioch University, Los Angeles in Clinical Psychology in 2004. The basis of my approach to psychotherapy is psychodynamic and I utilize many different skills and tools from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and many other approaches.
The most important aspect of my therapy is that it is unique to you, the client. No one is going to have quite the same issues or problems as you and my approach will be more effective as we make a plan of action that will lead to change and growth.
In my view I see therapy working in three broad and overlapping stages. The first phase is working with the symptoms that brought you to visit here in the first place. These might be anything from a lack of energy and an inability to do the things necessary to function in your life, to the worry and anxiety that keep you from enjoying life more. In therapy, we would work on bringing these symptoms more under your control, reducing their impact on your life.
That might lead to making some behavioral changes, the second phase of therapy. It might happen that change in your behavior is necessary to accomplish some of the goals you’ve set for yourself. This can be very hard work, which I can help you recognize, develop and put into action.
The third phase of therapy, and I think the most important, is personal growth. Essentially, this is the result of the first two phases, recognized over a period of time, that result in your feeling more complete, more in control, and ultimately more satisfied with your life.
While I am trying to make these phases of therapy distinct, there is a great deal of overlap, and they may not be so distinct in practice. But, I hope this gives you a fundamental idea of what therapy might be like with me.
My clinical interests lie mainly in extreme emotional disturbances, predominately stemming from traumas, both past and present. In my work with both individuals and couples, I find that past experiences continue to play a role, both unconsciously and with awareness, in current behavior and the practical and positive functioning in life. Identifying and understanding those past experiences is part of the path to a happier, healthier life.
About Borgardt Psychotherapy
Symptom Relief
Behavioral Change
Behavioral Change
We start with finding ways to reduce those issues that has you seeking therapy. With over 20 years of experience, I specialize in cognitive-behavioral therapy for anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Behavioral Change
Behavioral Change
Behavioral Change
Usually, finding relief from emotional problems requires changes in behavior. My approach is client-centered, collaborative, and evidence-based. I prioritize building a trusting and safe therapeutic relationship.
Personal Growth
Behavioral Change
Personal Growth
The primary result of psychotherapy is personal growth. Even the search you are making for a therapist is part of that growth. I have a master's degree in counseling psychology from Antioch University and have completed additional training in trauma-informed care.