- Thoughts and habits
- Direct and approachable
- Collaborative care
About James
He views symptoms like anxiety or depression as coming from multiple sources. That can include early attachment experiences, thought patterns, and biological factors. He blends several approaches to help people change unhelpful habits and reactions and to find clearer ways forward.
In sessions he aims to be straightforward and approachable. Conversations focus on what is happening now and what can be done differently. He helps people identify patterns in thinking and everyday habits that keep problems going and then practices alternatives together.
Dr. Bedell has worked in many settings across his career, including courts and forensic settings, as well as with individuals and groups. That range informs a practical, outcome-minded stance while keeping a person-centered tone. His license is IL Psychologist 071004954.
He invites a collaborative effort to ease pain and strengthen coping. If you want a therapist who looks at both thoughts and everyday habits, he offers an option grounded in long experience and a direct, humane style.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
38+ years
Credentials
Illinois
Languages
English
Approaches that guide online work and change
Attachment-Based Therapy looks at how early relationship patterns shape how people relate and how they feel secure. It helps people notice how those patterns show up now in closeness, trust, and emotional reactions. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, focuses on identifying the thoughts and everyday habits that keep problems going and practicing different responses so life becomes easier. Dialectical Behavior Therapy, or DBT, teaches specific skills for managing strong emotions, tolerating distress, and improving how people handle conflict.Finding the right approach is part of the work. The therapist will help figure out what fits best by talking about goals, needs, and preferences. That collaborative process may blend elements from different methods as useful for the person's situation.
Confirm current session options before booking because formats are not specified here. Online therapy can make it easier to fit sessions into a busy life, for example by reducing travel time or allowing shorter check-ins between commitments. Some formats require less bandwidth or do not need the camera on, which can help with a quieter check-in. Licensed professionals and therapists can use these approaches to help people practice new ways of thinking and acting in everyday life, and Dr. Bedell's long experience guides that practical focus.
Frequently asked questions
What types of concerns does he help with?
He works with many concerns including stress, anxiety, addictions, relationship and family difficulties, depression, trauma and abuse, grief, intimacy issues, eating concerns, parenting strain, anger, low self-esteem, bipolar disorder, and coping with life changes.
How would you describe his therapeutic style?
He uses a straightforward, non-judgmental approach and builds a respectful alliance. Sessions focus on understanding symptoms and trying practical changes in thinking and everyday habits.
What is his professional background?
He is a clinical psychologist with 38 years of experience who has worked with individuals, couples, groups, forensic clients, and people involved in family court settings.
What are his credentials and where is he located?
His credential is IL Psychologist 071004954 and he practices in Illinois.
Which languages are supported?
Sessions are offered in English.
Does he work with international clients?
He is not currently accepting international clients.
How does payment and cost work?
Cost varies with location and therapist availability, and sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
How do I begin working with him?
Choose the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and then schedule based on the therapist's availability.