Joy Gilman

I have been an elementary school counselor for 23 years, and have experience working with children of all ages, as well as parents, married couples and adults. I've spent 23 years as a school counselor working alongside children, teenagers, parents, and families through some of their hardest moments — and that's not just a career history. It's a way of seeing people. I know that anxiety in a 9-year-old looks completely different from anxiety in a 40-year-old, and that what a grieving parent needs is entirely different from what their grieving child needs. I bring that same attentiveness to every client, along with a genuine belief that change is possible at any age.

I get to know my clients by asking a lot of questions about their families, habits, and past histories of trauma or significant life changes. I help clients feel heard and validated and grieve if necessary. I tend to use motivational interviewing and/or CBT to help clients process, heal, develop and strengthen new habits for their mental and physical well-being.

It takes a lot of courage to step out and seek help for the hardships life can bring! I strive to make clients feel commended for their bravery, and as comfortable as possible with the idea of seeking therapy. We will have friendly conversation so that we can get to know each other and I can share what to expect from our time together and answer any questions that may arise. I have clients share the reasons they are seeking counseling and what outcomes they are looking to achieve.