My name is Joy Burgner. I have been licensed in California since 2011. Several life experiences have led me to adopt a completely nonjudgmental stance in treating clients, and my open-minded approach helps me form a strong therapeutic alliance. This creates a safe space where clients feel free to express, explore, and process the life events, thoughts, and feelings that have caused emotional distress. I have spent the majority of my career treating adolescents in the juvenile justice system and teenagers in foster care who were placed in group homes. I also served on a mobile response team, assessing clients of all ages for homicide and suicide risk in a variety of settings. I earned a Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University, Long Beach, and a Bachelor’s degree in Social Science from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo.
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
On first session, it's a "meet and greet" so to speak as I try to get to know my clients, their needs, and what brings them to therapy. I have to ask more questions to get a better understanding of symptoms, current functioning and some history to get an understanding of what has led them to where they are currently at.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
My biggest strength is my ability to form a positive rapport with my clients. I am committed to fostering trusting relationships with my clients where together we can promote real, lasting change. I always go at the pace my clients set, and in doing so, I create a therapeutic environment where people feel comfortable and safe revealing the most intimate details of their lives that takes away the possible shame and feelings of vulnerability that such details can engender. I am very non judgmental and open as well.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
Any person that is ready and wants to improve their ability to manage stress, improve their relationships, and ability to manage unwanted feelings.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
I have worked with at risk youth for over 10 years. I have provided DBT groups and ongoing anger management services to assist client's improve their emotional regulation skills and improve their relationships throughout my career. I utilize CBT and motivational interviewing as I believe client's mostly have the answers and skills needed to reach their goals and it is my job to assist them in accessing said skills and experiences.
4 ratings with written reviews
October 21, 2025
I am in huge transition and needing to balance a great deal while also dealing with some pitfalls and challenges. I also have addictions that need checking so it good to have someone to speak it all out to so i don't feel alone with really big feelings. Joy helps me feel capable and very human and makes the big stuff feel smaller. i can go into my crazy for a bit and pick out the weeds without judgement and with humor. With her help i feel like I am doing okay and moving forward.
July 28, 2025
She is very open & understanding. Giving great advice & helps to set goals that are realistic & achievable. She’s very easy to talk to & has made therapy truly enjoyable.
July 1, 2025
Very understanding, and kind person. I feel like she really listens, and cares. She allows me to finish my thoughts without interrupting.