Now offering EMDR

I am excited to add to my services, as I am currently learning EMDR. EMDR is an abbreviation for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy.  If you have not heard of this evidence based and unique approach to therapy, I encourage you to do some research. Here are some overview webpages:  If you are […]

The Flaw with ‘The Best Therapist’

Who is the best counselor in Spokane? Who is the best counselor in Seattle? Who is the best counselor in the Tri-cities? These are questions that you may be asking. Unfortunately, there is no absolute answer to this question. In fact, asking who is the best counselor is sort of a counterproductive question. The best […]

We Might Be a Good Fit If…

Research shows that, generally speaking, the better the fit between a counselor and a client, then the better the odds are that therapy will be successful. Because there are a lot of options, I thought I would briefly give you a list of what I am as a therapist and what I am not. There […]

History of the Ducks

What’s with the ducks? This is one of the most frequent questions that I get. I like ducks, okay, is that a good enough answer? I did not think so. However, I had to name my business something. A vast majority of therapists use their name. I could have named my business James Anacker therapy. […]

Now Offering In Person Therapy Too

I am proud to announce that I have signed a one year lease for an office. I am now booking in-person therapy for those interested and willing to meeting at my south hill (Spokane) location. Email or call 406-879-6652 for more info.

Why I Won’t Just Tell You What To Do

“Just tell me what to do.” I hear it all the time from clients. People want me to just tell them what to do. Unfortunately, I was trained that is not very good therapy. However, as we all learn in life, often times there is a stark difference between how we are trained (especially in […]

Happy Pride Month

 want to make a quick note of HAPPY PRIDE MONTH! I am 100% LGBTQ+ allied. I hope June 2023 will be a month of respect and support for our fellow humans who have faced and continue to face discrimination. I hope through my small private practice that I can bolster the bravery of LGBTQ+ clients […]

What is a vacation? Does it really matter?

What is a vacation, and what is not a vacation. And the benefits of vacation. WHAT IS a vacation: 1.  Time off work that are not regularly scheduled breaks such as weekends 2.  Allowing oneself to destress. 3.  Allowing oneself to do enjoyable activities. 4.  Checking in on work emails and phone calls as little […]

History of the Ducks

What’s with the ducks? This is one of the most frequent questions that I get. I like ducks, okay, is that a good enough answer? I did not think so. However, I had to name my business something. A vast majority of therapists use their name. I could have named my business James Anacker therapy. […]

Scams, Therapy, and Other Thoughts

I recently received a phone call that was professional, authoritative, and the caller was offering to help. It turned out to be a scammer trying to get my debit card info. I almost gave them the info, because they seemed so believable.  I am a licensed and practicing mental health counselor. I listen to stories […]