An Interview with Dr. James Cianciulli
What drew you to the therapy profession?
After a rocky start to college, I had an epiphany. I noticed how the unique skills and attributes of certain people were helping me to access my inner strengths and help me to succeed in ways I never imagined. That epiphany inspired me to study neuroscience and advanced psychology, including child psychology, with the hopes of guiding others. What is your favorite thing about being a therapist? I am never surprised by human potential and development. I enjoy the challenge of helping parents with disruptive or difficult children, and I am excited when individuals realize their own potential for growth and change – amazing!
Is there a personal challenge you’ve overcome that has made you a better therapist? I experienced a serious physical and emotional trauma that nearly took my life and my spirit for living. As a result, I endured years of very painful physical therapy and emotional growth that paved the way for me to reconsider my options in life – to juggle my educational achievements and skills in a way that I could still serve others and enjoy my work.
What makes you unique as a therapist?
After 30 years, I am not sure if I am unique. I am accepting my limitations more often compared to my younger years, but I rarely give up. I am finding that, while society and people continue to evolve, there is very little about the human condition that is changed in terms of experiencing and coping with loss, trauma, sadness, and even joy.
How would you describe your therapeutic approach?
My approach is firmly rooted in the use of teaching and modeling skills, empowering children and parents to re-examine their general approach to situations, and evaluating the strengths and needs of the individual. Overall, I use a cognitive-dynamic approach that is
equally grounded in positive parenting, individual psychology, and flexible cognitive-behavioral therapies.
Everyone needs self-care. How do you practice self-care?
I am an impassioned drummer since the age of five, and I continue to enjoy playing and listening to classic rock, progressive rock, as well as my family roots in Italian music! I am more recently attentive to my stress levels and I access meditation through
music, walks, exercise, and even quiet prayers. I am also re-learning important nutritional values – balancing my dietary intake with important aerobic activity.
What is one thing that is important for anyone to know?
That everything, every day, every situation is a moment of potential. We, as human beings, take so much for granted; particularly during these digital times. We are fragile and precious, but so is the bounty of life all around us.
What's most important to you?
Reminding myself, whenever possible, that action and the potential for change is available to me at any time. Everyday life presents so many distractions! Worry and anxiety befall us all, so it’s essential to drop back and remember the most important things in life – whatever that
might be.
You can learn more about Jim here.