Jimmy Portner

I am a dedicated social worker, educator, and trainer with a passion for helping individuals who struggle with mental health and substance use concerns. My career has been shaped by a commitment to evidence-based practices, professional mentorship, and fostering meaningful human connection. Whether through clinical work, training, or teaching, my goal is to empower both clients and professionals with the tools needed to create lasting change.

Academic & Professional Background:
I earned both my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Social Work from The Ohio State University. Over the past 20 years, I have worked extensively in the fields of mental health and substance use, specializing in the implementation and training of evidence-based interventions.

I have served as a leader in the National Motivational Interviewing (MI) VA program for over a decade, contributing to the advancement of MI in clinical settings, research, and training. As a member of the Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers (MINT), I have been part of a prestigious community committed to maintaining excellence in MI practice and instruction.

Additionally, I am a certified trainer and provider of Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy (RO-DBT), a treatment designed for individuals with emotional overcontrol. Since 2014, I have focused on applying RO-DBT to complex, treatment-resistant cases, providing training and supervision to clinicians nationwide.

I have also been an adjunct lecturer at The Ohio State University’s College of Social Work for over a decade, sharing my expertise with future social workers. My professional interests include the role of social signaling in therapy, the intersection of culture and mental health, and advancing innovative treatments for individuals with complex needs.

Beyond Work:
Outside of my professional roles, I enjoy spending time with my wife and our two children. I'm a passionate soccer fan and a dedicated supporter of Columbus Crew. When I’m not watching the game, I enjoy coaching youth soccer, listening to music, and unwinding with a good stand-up comedy set.

On a more personal note, my journey with Radically Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy has not only shaped my clinical work but has also profoundly impacted my own growth. Practicing RO-DBT has challenged me to be more open, flexible, and connected in ways I never imagined, deepening both my professional and personal relationships.