Foundation House, an extended care treatment program for young men in Portland, Maine, is proud to announce that James Skelton, LADC, LCSW, has joined the clinical team as a primary therapist. Foundation House provides leading-edge clinical care, and James brings a progressive clinical approach and diverse therapeutic experience that will empower the young men of the program. On his first impression of Foundation House, James remarks, “it is a very welcoming, inclusive environment – a place where Wellness, whether personal or communal, is always at the forefront.”
More than a decade ago, James began in the treatment industry, working as a chemical dependency counselor in Texas, where he worked with young adults who struggled with acute substance abuse and underlying mental health issues. He also dedicated himself to providing family services, as substance abuse commonly affects the entire family system.
To expand his scope of practice, James relocated to Asheville, North Carolina, where he worked as a recovery specialist for three years at a wilderness therapy program. During this time, he returned to school to pursue his Master of Social Work (MSW). As a clinician, James gained foundational experience in sitting with clients in their discomfort in the day-to-day milieu, meeting them where they are, and providing compassionate support and tools capable of creating meaningful change. James used the combination of his experience and training to deliver the therapeutic services essential to overcoming the obstacles and discomfort of early recovery.
As a primary therapist, and member of the Foundation House clinical team, James will be leveraging his significant experience in wilderness therapy to expand upon the experiences of many residents admitted to Foundation House from a wilderness program. His role will not be confined to the clinical office but will take him out into the community, supporting residents of the program in applying the skills they have learned. He will continue his focus on the family system to help foster healthy boundaries and communication that lead to strengthened relationships.  In describing what drew him to Foundation House, James states, “it is the spirit of community and fellowship that initially attracted me. The acceptance and connection on this campus are authentic.”

Foundation House is grateful to have James join the clinical team and for his immediate impact on the young men of our program. As Foundation House looks to the future, James’ progressive approach will be a key to achieving new heights.

About Foundation House
Founded in 2002, Foundation House is an extended care treatment program for young men, ages 17-35, located in Portland, Maine. The comprehensive program transcends the outdated attachment to institutional barriers, offering a path built upon empowering trust, empathetic kindness, and an adventurous spirit. For more information regarding Foundation House, visit www.foundationhouse.com or call 207-791-2000.