Kurt James, LCSW, LCAS
Kurt James, LCSW, LCAS began working with Widening Circles in 2019, providing coaching services and working as a clinical intern. Kurt returned to the team in 2024 to continue pursuing his passion of offering individualized, person-centered care using innovative and novel approaches as part of a multidisciplinary treatment team.
Kurt earned a Bachelor of Social Work degree from Appalachian State University and graduated from Western Carolina University with a Master of Social Work, with a concentration in the treatment of substance use disorders. Kurt is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist, and he has over a decade of experience in a variety of mental health treatment settings. Kurt has spent time working in community mental health as a clinician in a recovery education center, as an Outpatient Therapist, and as a Community Support Team Lead. He has worked in outdoor adventure-based treatment as a Family Therapist and Parent Coach, as well as in residential treatment where he facilitated qEEG evaluations and provided neuro/biofeedback treatments.
Kurt’s therapeutic approach is psychodynamic and rooted in attachment theory, supporting the patient in exploring the interplay between their current challenges and their early relational experiences. By fostering a safe, collaborative environment, he helps individuals gain insight into unconscious patterns, promoting self-awareness and meaningful change. Kurt utilizes Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to support patients in creating meaning by living in accordance with one’s values through committed and intentional action. Some areas of special interest for Kurt include working with the neurodivergent population and folks struggling with co-occurring substance use. Kurt strongly believes that shame and stigma are a common barrier for people struggling with substance use issues, that problematic substance use is almost always a symptom of a more deeply-rooted issue, and that addressing the underlying issue with curiosity and self-compassion is vital to supporting long-term recovery and personal growth.
In his free time, Kurt enjoys playing the guitar, gardening, and backpacking. On some of his best days, Kurt can be found meandering in the national forest with his wife and their most adorable 2 year-old son.