JAMES (Jay) MCGUIRE, LPC, CAADC

(he, him, his)
Preferred Name: JAMES

About Me

We develop strategies early in life to ensure our safety. As adults, we often find these strategies are no longer effective and often harmful. As a survivor of complex trauma and a family history of generational alcohol & substance abuse, I believe individuals can and do recover. My personal journey led me to pursue a career helping others to overcome the baggage of their past. I specialize in the treatment of alcohol & substance abuse, complex trauma, anxiety, personality, and mood disorders. I utilize evidenced based practices including but not limited to CBT, DBT, EMDR, motivational interviewing, harm reduction and stages of change models of treatment. My therapeutic orientation is solution focused Reality Therapy. I assist individuals and families to overcome challenges and improve their quality of life. Meeting individuals where they are, I develop a strong therapeutic alliance built on mutual trust and respect. Engagement and collaboration are utilized in the creation of a personalized treatment plan that empowers individuals to realize their fullest potential.

Education & Experience

I earned a Master of Science Degree in Professional Counseling at Carlow University. I am Pennsylvania Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC) My experience includes community mental health work as a mobile therapist and a substance abuse specialist for the Allegheny County Community Treatment Team. I served as a forensic liaison for the Allegheny County Mental Health Court. I also worked for Western Psychiatric Hospital as a therapist in the Narcotics Addiction Treatment Program. I provided therapeutic treatment in an array of long-term and short-term psychiatric facilities before converting to private practice.

Professional & Volunteer Affiliations

Member National Association of Addiction Professionals, Substance Abuse Professionals and SOARS local council for Opioid Dependance.

Specialty Area

  • Abuse/Neglect
  • ADD/ADHD/Disruptive Behavior Disorders
  • Addictions
  • Alcohol/Substance Abuse
  • Anxiety/Panic Attacks
  • Attachment Disorders
  • Autism Spectrum
  • Bipolar Disorder
  • Dissociative Disorders
  • Personality Disorders
  • Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Psychotic Disorders

Population Served

  • Adults
  • BIPOC
  • LGBTQ+
  • Underserved

Language

  • English

Insurance

  • Aetna
  • BlueCross BlueShield
  • Cigna
  • Highmark
  • Medicaid
  • UnitedHealth