Spearman Counseling Services

I grew up in the upstate of South Carolina in a family of two brothers and two sisters. This area has been my home for almost half of my life. During the course of my educational and professional career I have lived in a number of states outside of SC. I am married with four children.

I have an earned doctorate in Psychology and counseling and been in practice since 1972. My training has consisted of work in four different psychiatric hospitals and 10 years as clinical director of an in-hospital addiction treatment program. In addition to alcohol and drug addiction training I am also trained in sexual therapy/addiction.

My special emphasis has been in family systems, marriage therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy. I view life as a process beginning in childhood with each person adapting to his/her environment out of necessity rather than choice. As adults, we have the possibility of re-adapting to life based on our beliefs, life goals, and changing circumstances. However, this is a complicated process that requires time and considerable contemplation about who we are and where we believe we want to go in life. Frequently there is confusion and road blocks in our quest to achieve adult life goals. I design my counseling with individuals to identify obstacles that interfere with one's happiness and their ability to achieve a desirable level of satisfaction in life. In marriage and in families, this process can involve all members. Consideration is given to the differences that each individual brings to the relationships.

I view psychotherapy as a tool in removing behavioral patterns that have been learned over time that no longer serve a useful purpose in an individual's life. Psychotherapy is a process that involves time, possible re-evaluating of belief systems and the development of new living skills.

In the area of addictions, I have come to understand that most addictive behaviors are a mix of inherited traits and learned behaviors. With appropriate methods of treatment, all addictive behaviors can be modified and, to some extent can be extinguished. This includes addiction to alcohol, drugs, pornography, and other inappropriate sexual behaviors.

My method of treatment begins with an initial gathering of pertinent information concerning the issues in questions and then the development of a detailed treatment plan with timelines. The first session is open to the answering of questions and talking about the details of psychotherapy.

I look forward to meeting with you and helping you to find clarification on your personal issues.

Dr. Jim Spearman

37 Villa Road, Suite 420
Greenville, SC 29615
Call: 864-241-8144