James Wankel, LCSW, LISW-CP

James Wankel is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Licensed Independent Social Worker - Clinical Practice (LISW-CP) who offers compassionate, evidence-informed care for people navigating stress, anxiety, addiction, trauma, ADHD, and major life transitions. With five years of clinical experience, he emphasizes clear, respectful collaboration to help clients untangle complex challenges and build practical coping skills.

He brings particular commitment to serving LGBTQ+ individuals, veterans, first responders, and people experiencing social isolation or identity-related concerns, creating an affirming atmosphere where each person’s experience is acknowledged and respected. His practice often addresses communication difficulties, social anxiety, sexuality, chronic pain, and relational conflict, and he tailors interventions to the specific needs and goals of each person.

James draws on a blend of client-centered, cognitive, and mindfulness-based approaches to support healing, recovery, and growth. He prioritizes multicultural perspectives and nonjudgmental care, meeting clients where they are and helping them develop resilience and clearer direction. Whether the goal is working through trauma, managing addictive behaviors, improving attention and daily functioning with ADHD, or pursuing personal growth, he works alongside clients with steadiness, empathy, and clinical clarity.

Approaches and Online Care Tailored to Your Needs

James integrates client-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and mindfulness practices into online sessions. Client-centered therapy focuses on understanding each person's perspective and building a trusting therapeutic relationship - it helps when someone needs empathy, validation, and a space to explore identity or relationship concerns. CBT offers structured techniques to identify and change unhelpful thoughts and behaviors, which can be useful for anxiety, stress, and patterns related to addiction or ADHD. Mindfulness therapy teaches present-moment awareness and grounding skills that support emotional regulation and coping with chronic pain or trauma-related distress.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process, and James works collaboratively with clients to determine which methods fit their goals, preferences, and day-to-day realities. He adapts interventions over time based on what proves most effective and sustainable for each person.

Online therapy with James can take place by video call, phone session, live chat, or text-based messaging, offering flexibility for busy schedules, mobility limitations, or geographic constraints. These options make it easier to maintain continuity of care, try different formats for support, and access a licensed professional from wherever the client is located in North Carolina.