I am Dr. Francis but prefer for you to call me James. I keep it real, believe in second chances, and love to meet you where you are. My heart is for counseling men, young adults, couples, and pastors. As a first-generation Jamaican-American son of a pastor, I feel blessed and uniquely gifted to relate well to diverse cultures.
If you are struggling with issues such as anxiety, anger, depression, life transitions, church hurt and abuse, or race-related trauma, I would be honored to listen and walk with you to a place of healing. I may also provide guidance for those lacking in resilience and spiritual maturity.
Many people have difficulty acknowledging their feelings, understanding the goals of their behavior, exploring childhood pain, and making meaning out of their stories. Together we can work toward building structure and accountability, and increase your awareness of the growth you are experiencing that you may at times forget to acknowledge.
For couples, communication is critical. I have helped others like you to recognize dysfunctional communication patterns, replace negative beliefs about themself and their partner, and biblically realign their marriage.
If you are planning to marry and want to get a head start on building a strong relationship together, I can help. Meeting together, we can determine your marital readiness using the Saving Your Marriage Before It Starts assessment.
Credentials, Education & Training
Licenses & Certifications
- Licensed Professional Counselor, Georgia – LPC013414
- LMHC – Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Florida – MH21427
- EMDR Certified – https://www.emdria.org/directory/people/james-francis/
- Licensed Minister with the Church of God – Cleveland, TN.
- SYMBIS (Saving Your Marriage Before It Starts) Premarital & Marital Enrichment Facilitator
Education
- Doctor of Education, Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Louisville, KY.
- Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Pentecostal Theological Seminary, Cleveland, TN.
- Bachelor of Fine Art in Graphic Design/Art and Humanities, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL.
Additional Training & Experience
- Handle with Care: Crisis Intervention Training Instructor
- Resilience and Spiritual Maturity Development
- Emotion-Focused Couples Therapy
- Negative Core Belief Identification
- Pastoral Care and Counseling
- Leadership Development
- Trauma-Informed Care
- Spiritual Abuse
James’ Schedule
These are the days and times that James is usually available to meet with clients. If you have questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact us.
DAY | TIME | LOCATION | INDIV RATE | COUPLES RATE |
Tuesday | 8:00-7:00p | Online | $150 | $165 |
Thursday | 8:00-7:00p | Online | $150 | $165 |
Friday | 1:00-7:00p | Online | $150 | $165 |
NOTES: – The rate for the initial session is an additional $10. – The premarital counseling rate is $110 (with initial assessment fee of $35)For premarital counseling, a consultation with one or both partners is required and available on most Monday and Wednesday afternoons. Alternative consultation times can be requested. |
james@restorationcounselingatl.com, ext 118
James’ Posts
The Shape of Our Identity
Why Our Family of Origin Matters Family dynamics are complex, shaped not only by individual personalities but also by the …
A 3rd Place: Moving Toward Belonging Post-Covid
Before 2020, one of the things I enjoyed the most was meeting up with friends at a fast food spot …
Navigating Family Stress During the Holidays
The holiday season can be an enjoyable time of togetherness and celebration. Families who have moved away might be able …
Shifting Focus
Navigating Personal Challenges During the Holidays For many, the holiday season is a magnificent time of wonder and reflection. For …
Why Every Marriage Needs a Marriage Mission Statement
What is a Marriage Mission Statement? The simplest definition is a summary statement describing the aims, values, or reasons for …
Understanding Anger
What it Says About Us, God & Others Genesis 4: 5-8; James 1:19, 20 Do you know anyone who did …
Why We ALL Should Celebrate Black History Month
What does the Bible say about Celebration? Celebration is a spiritual discipline. Celebration in the Bible is frequently experienced collectively …
Reaching Out for Authentic Connection
There is a story in the Bible so important that three out of the four Gospels include it (Matthew 9:20-22; …
The Myth of Cohabitation: Why it Will Most Likely Kill a Relationship
So you have met the man or woman of your dreams. You are convinced that you two will spend the …
Wholeness: The Intersection Between Pastors, Churches, and Professional Counselors
The Importance of Professional Mental Health Counseling in Churches Mental health is a serious topic that has become a prominent …
Relationship University: Lesson 2
Lesson 2 Using Signposts and Effective Communication Jeremiah 31:21a Set up road markers for yourself; establish signposts! Keep the highway …
Relationship University: Lesson 1
LESSON 1: Understanding Your Negative Relational Patterns and Core Beliefs To drive a vehicle in this country you are required …
Lamenting For Justice
Each year, on Memorial Day in America, we remember the brave and fallen soldiers who have fought for our country. …
Help Build Teen Mental Health Resiliency
We can help build teen mental health resiliency. Mental illness is on the rise around the world. One study found …