Jim is the founding member of Straight Gate, Inc. and Co-Founder of 12-2-1 Roundtables. He brings over 35 years of experience and expertise in helping people with addictions and life-controlling issues.

Jim has previously held key roles as a Clinical Director, Therapist, and Counselor. He has a special interest in Treatment Courts, and has served many clients in Community Corrections (DRC), Adult Drug Court Programs, and Juvenile Corrections.

Jim received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Marshall University and has held an Alcohol and Drug Counselor (ADC) Certification with Clinical Supervision endorsements for more than thirty years. Jim is also a qualified SAP for the D.O.T.

Jim has been in long-term recovery from addiction since 1988. He and his wife Faith are members of Summit Church in Elkins, WV where they serve in various capacities, including a recovery ministry.
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The 12-2-1 Roundtables Model and Curriculum is the culmination of his life's work...to date.
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In his own words, Jim says:
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"I have been witness to miraculous events and recoveries as well as tragic consequences and deaths, sometimes in the same day and often in the same week.  Their recoveries show me the sheer power and beauty of God’s grace, mercy, forgiveness and love.​  But, their painful tragedies continue to show me the deception and hardness of self, the twisted complications of addiction, and the unrelenting wiles of the enemy." 
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"I believe addiction is a primary, chronic, progressive and potentially fatal disease whose only hope for permanent remission is total abstinence.  In order for total abstinence to occur, however, I believe we must get plugged into the process of recovery via involvement in the 12-step community.  Additionally, as a Christian, I believe that it would be tragic to experience recovery in this life only to miss the Eternal reward of Heaven."