Joanne earned her master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the Townsend Institute at Concordia University Irvine and comes to the counseling profession with a background in teaching. Her years in the classroom fostered a deep appreciation for the different ways people grow, learn, and face challenges, and she carries that perspective into her work with clients of all ages. She built on that foundation during her clinical training, which included work in an acute mental health setting, where she supported clients through short-term, structured care designed to promote safety, stability, and growth.
Growing up in a diverse and culturally rich environment gave her insight into how family and cultural expectations can present unique challenges to identity, relationships, and personal development. She draws on this awareness to connect authentically with clients as they navigate their healing and growth.Her clinical approach is grounded in psychodynamic and humanistic perspectives, supported by a trauma-informed lens. She believes that early relational experiences shape how we understand ourselves and relate to others, and she supports clients in exploring these patterns with curiosity and compassion. While her style is warm and relational, she also provides structure and guidance when needed. Whether supporting a child through big feelings, helping a teen develop healthier coping skills, or working with adults to build clarity and resilience, she finds it an honor to walk alongside all her clients.
Outside of counseling, Joanne is a busy mom of three and has been married for over 20 years. She embraces the joys and challenges of family life, finds grounding in her faith, and values continual growth, believing there is always something to learn in every stage of life.