Hi there, I’m Joy

I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California (License #LCS 27316). As a holistic therapist, I am passionate about the integration of evidenced-based therapy interventions with holistic wellness practices. I am a multiracial (Japanese, Mexican, and Native American) woman and intimately familiar with cultural nuances and trauma on various levels (developmental, complex, transgenerational, collective, and existential).

Education and Experience

Bachelors of Arts in Liberal Studies with a concentration on Ethnic Studies from California State University, San Francisco (graduated summa cum laude)
Masters in Social Work from California State University, Sacramento
EMDRIA™ certified EMDR therapist
Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP™) (completed a multi-year professional training program through Somatic Experiencing® International)
Graduate of Dharma Coaching Institute’s intensive 6-month program that focused on spiritual coaching and holistic wellness practices
Quantum Human Design™ Practitioner
Over 15 years of experience as a licensed therapist
Served as a clinical supervisor/trainer to numerous clinicians, as well as supervised/managed multiple clinical programs

How I Work

I am deeply committed to creating a safe and judgment–free zone for my clients, where they can freely explore, experiment, and express themselves. I view my role as being a sounding board, support person, confidant, and educator for my clients, who will walk beside them as they navigate the various challenges and hurdles they face in life during our work together. My style reflects a balance of warmth, humor, and intentionality with a sprinkling of challenge when my clients are ready for and can benefit from it.

I value self–determination and honor my clients‘ right to make decisions for themselves. Through thoughtful pacing and timing, I take care to avoid pushing my clients past the limits of what their nervous systems can handle. However, I also encourage my clients to embrace the mild discomfort inherent in the “growth edge” and invite them be self-reflective and open to shifts in perspective, take calculated risks, break habitual patterns, and bravely step into deeper honesty and vulnerability that is required for profound healing and growth. I understand the challenging nature of this work, as I have been through it myself, and I am honored to partner with my clients in their healing journey.

I work best with people who are ready to dig in and dig deep. Those who are committed to freeing themselves of behaviors and patterns that no longer, or may have never, served them. Those who are curious about how their past influences their present. Those who are willing to put in the time and effort that is needed for lasting change.

I do not require my clients to feel confident nor clear about what they want to achieve in treatment nor how to get there. I simply request that they maintain an open mind and a willing heart.