Debra J Kearse-Thomas
I'm Debra Kearse Thomas, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Therapist, and Empowerment Coach. As Founder of Just Joy Coaching and Therapy, I bring over 20 years of experience in trauma-informed care, crisis response, and culturally affirming practice.
As Founder of Just Joy Coaching and Therapy, I bring over 20 years of experience in trauma-informed care, crisis response, and culturally affirming practice.
I specialize in creating healing spaces that honor your story, your strength, and your joy—blending clinical insight with soulful guidance. Whether you're navigating transitions, seeking clarity, or reclaiming your voice, I offer compassionate support, creative tools, and intentional strategies to help you move forward with confidence.
First session
In our first session, we’ll create space for you to arrive just as you are. Whether you're seeking therapy or coaching, we’ll explore what’s bringing you here, what you’re hoping to shift or strengthen, and how we can co-create a path forward. I’ll ask thoughtful questions, offer grounding tools, and listen deeply. You’ll have room to reflect, share at your own pace, and begin shaping goals that feel aligned with your values, healing, and growth. This is your space—and I’m here to support you with clarity and compassion.
Strengths
My greatest strengths lie in creating spaces that are culturally affirming, trauma-informed, and deeply intentional. I integrate narrative therapy, mindfulness practices, somatic awareness, and legacy-centered coaching to help clients reconnect with their inner wisdom and move toward healing and growth. Whether we’re working through trauma, navigating life transitions, or clarifying purpose, I offer reflective dialogue, creative rituals, and practical tools that honor your story and support transformation. Clients often share that they feel more grounded, empowered, and aligned after our work together.
Ideal clients
My ideal clients are individuals navigating life transitions, healing from trauma, or seeking deeper alignment with their values and purpose. Many come with a desire to reclaim their voice, reconnect with their inner wisdom, or move through stuckness with clarity and compassion. I’m especially attuned to serving women, creatives, caregivers, and those carrying intergenerational stories. Whether through therapy or coaching, I support clients who are ready to do the work—who value reflection, cultural resonance, and soulful strategy as they move toward healing, growth, and joy.
Treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
CBT is a method of psychotherapy that focuses on adjusting thoughts that are not helpful and most likely cause unpredictable behaviors and emotions. In my practice, we explore and challenge the recurring thoughts attached to the feelings causing the difficulties, and identify what is needed to get to a healthier place.
Location
Virtual sessions
Identifies as
Top specialties
Other specialties
Serves
Licensed in
- New YorkLicense 089666