Hi! My name is Joy.
I am a registered associate professional clinical counselor (APCC 12798), supervised by Mariana Nenadic Shanks, M.A., a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT 53697.
I am a lover of fruits and veggies, a fan of Gilmore Girls, and an avid learner. I am constantly reading, watching, and listening to resources that help me with my work. I am trained in trauma-informed therapies like EMDR, Flash, and Brainspotting.
Ministry Experience: Currently, I am taking a break from full-time ministry to become a trauma-informed therapist. I was a missionary in France for eight years and co-founded an anti-trafficking ministry. This experience allowed me to walk alongside people in prostitution from many cultures and sit with them in their pain and trauma. I discovered in practical ways how healing and growth is possible through safe relationships and spiritual care. I also learned what it is like to be an outsider in a new country–to learn a new language (French) and adjust to a new culture.
Education
- MA in Mental Health Counseling –Townsend Institute of Concordia University, Irvine
- Master of Divinity – Evangel University
- MA in Education, CA teaching credential, BA in English & Social Science – Bethany University
Areas of Focus
- Trauma-informed therapy
- EMDR & Flash
- Brainspotting
- Family of Origin
- Attachment
- & more!
Previous Experience
- High school teacher in CA
- Associate pastor
- Overseas non-profit work & missions