Karen welcomes Jim Thomas to the show for part two of their conversation on using attachment theory when working with couples.

Jim obtained his Bachelor’s Degree in psychology from the Ohio State University. He studied alternative approaches to psychotherapy for two years at Boulder College, and earned his Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Colorado at Denver. He is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, EFT Therapist, and an AAMFT, Clinical Fellow and an AAMFT Approved Supervisor as well as an ICEEFT EFT Supervisor.

In 1990, Jim joined the Colorado Institute for Marriage and the Family for Post-Graduate Training in couples and family therapy. His mentors there, Jan Raynak, MD, and Suzanne Pope, Ph.D., taught him the importance of co-creating meaningful experiences for clients in the therapy session, going beyond appearances to the heart of a relationship.

From 1998 to 2002, Jim served as President-Elect, President, and Past-President of the Colorado Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (CAMFT). His peers elected Jim Chair of the Council of Division Presidents for the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT). He served on the national board of directors for AAMFT. He presented workshops or facilitated strategic planning for the Alaska, Michigan, South Dakota, and Washington Associations for Marriage and Family Therapy. He also teaches EFT at Denver Family Institute.

Jim left agency work to start the Institute for Change, P.C., and Engaging Trainings. His consulting work includes Shining Mountain High School in Boulder. He has consulted with Aurora Mental Health Center, Mental Health Corporation of Denver, Shiloh House, Community Reach Center, Dignity Program for Girls, Shepherd Valley School, and Emerson Street School.