Hi SDCC! I’m James McLintock and the field of psychotherapy has long been a passion of mine that developed from careers in public safety. From beach lifeguard supervisor to police officer, I was immersed in emergency events that required analyzing, adapting, and reacting to ever-changing circumstances that were unfolding with little to no warning. Through my experiences with crisis intervention, I discovered that I had an aptitude for counseling and with the encouragement of pastors, family, and friends I began my quest for a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology / Marriage & Family Therapy at Azusa Pacific University. I am now completing my training at North County Serenity House (women’s residential facility for substance abuse treatment and recovery), and am a certified Alcoholism and Other Drug Recovery Specialist with the California Association of Addiction Recovery Resources.
Born into the Catholic faith, I longed for a more personal relationship with God, His Son, and His Spirit, and have been a Christian in my walk of faith with the Lord from when I was a young adult. When I lived in Orange County, I was deeply involved with my church’s worship ministry (Mariners), sang on our vocal team and with the worship choir, helped establish the safety and medical team, and providing security for a wonderful array of singers and speakers including Amy Grant and Mercy Me.
With roots that pass through Texas, Colorado, and Ohio, it was natural for my parents to set me on a horse when I was 3 years old. Small towns, horse drives, and cattledogs have since become high on my list of “the best things in life” —and from my saddle in the Eastern High Sierra’s—with the beauty of God’s creations unfolding all around me—was where David’s words in Psalm 8 were branded on my heart:
“O Lord, our Lord, your glory is higher than the heavens…when I look at the night sky and see the work of your fingers—the moon and the stars you set in place…O Lord, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth!”
I am a huge fan of the outdoors, country music, a good cup of coffee, and most any athletic event and am passionate about cheering for the Denver Bronco’s, Dallas Cowboys, Greenbay Packers, Colorado Rockies, Texas Rangers and the Ohio State Buckeyes. When I’m not training Prairie Fire (the world’s best cattle dog!), I’m on the sand playing as much beach volleyball as possible, hiking, camping, stream fishing, barbequing with family and friends, or being an uncle to my 4 year old niece and nephew twins.
“Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28 NIV
I am excited to be at a place in life where I am tapping into the counseling blessings God has given me and I am thrilled to offer support and encouragement to those who are courageously searching for direction, clarity, wisdom, discernment—or maybe just some rest—and to help empower bold journeys of positive life changing choices.
If you see me on campus, stop me and say hi! I look forward to meeting you!
James McLintock
(562) 458-1111