James N. Sells, Ph.D. (Jim) is a licensed psychologist, professor of counseling at Regent University, Virginia Beach, VA where he co-directs the Charis Institute which is a research, training and resource center for all things related to the Church, marriage, family and mental health.
He received his BA from Biola University and has MAs from Wheaton College and Northern Illinois University. His Ph.D. is in Counseling Psychology from the University of Southern California.
Dr. Sells takes great delight in working with couples and families in reconciling conflict; he consults and advises pastors and ministry leaders in increasing effectiveness; and he teaches graduates how to become effective therapists and visionary leaders in Christian mental health.
He is the author/co-author of many books, including: Family Therapies: A Comprehensive Christian Appraisal, Counseling Couples in Conflict: A Relational Restoration Model, Beyond the Clinical Hour: How Counselors can Partner with the Church to Address the Mental Health Crisis, and Ministering to Families in Crisis: The Essential Guide for Nurturing Mental and Emotional Health and, When Hurting People Come to Church: : How People of Faith Can Help Solve the Mental Health Crisis. His research focuses on creating effective care ministries, marital restoration and family therapy, and forgiveness and reconciliation.
Jim is married to Heather and they live in the Tidewater area of Virginia and North Carolina. Their three children are adults and are responding to God’s call on their lives, forming their purpose, and creating their families. Jim loves fixing things that don’t work well, relationships, houses, and toys.. “Can you help me with this?” is among his favorite questions to hear.