LPCC, 9 years of experience
New to Grow
Hello, I’m Joy Messer, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor dedicated to helping children, teens, and adults navigate life’s challenges with compassion and practical support. I use evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Play Therapy to help clients build insight, resilience, and healthier coping skills. My goal is to create a safe and welcoming space where clients can explore their emotions, heal from past experiences, and move toward personal growth and emotional well-being.
During our first session, clients can expect a comfortable, judgment-free space to share what brings them to therapy. We’ll talk about your goals, background, and what you hope to gain from counseling. I’ll explain how therapy works, answer any questions, and begin identifying strengths and areas for growth so we can create a plan that fits your unique needs and pace.
I focus on helping clients feel understood while also teaching effective tools they can use in daily life. By combining Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Play Therapy techniques, I tailor each session to fit the individual’s age, personality, and goals. My clients often describe feeling more empowered, confident, and equipped to manage challenges as they progress in therapy
I specialize in helping children, adolescents, and adults who are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, addictions, or major life transitions. Many of my clients come to therapy feeling overwhelmed or unsure of how to create change. I work alongside them to build healthy coping skills, strengthen motivation, and develop practical tools for recovery and emotional balance. I also have a special interest in supporting children and teens who have experienced trauma or family challenges, using Play Therapy and other creative approaches to promote healing and personal growth.
I frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in my sessions to help clients recognize and change unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors. This approach focuses on practical strategies that empower clients to manage anxiety, depression, and daily stress more effectively.
I incorporate Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills to help clients learn mindfulness, regulate emotions, and improve communication. This approach balances acceptance and change, supporting clients in managing intense emotions more effectively.
I draw from Person-Centered Therapy to create a compassionate and nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard and understood. This supportive environment empowers individuals to explore their emotions and move toward personal growth.
I use Motivational Interviewing (MI) to help clients explore their personal motivations for change in a supportive, nonjudgmental way. This approach empowers individuals to strengthen their confidence and make positive choices at their own pace.
I integrate Play Therapy to help children express emotions, process experiences, and develop problem-solving skills through play — their natural form of communication. It allows me to connect with children in a developmentally appropriate and healing way.