Joy Makela
Joy Makela, LMHC-QS, LSP, LPC, NCC
Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Licensed School Psychologist
Licensed Professional Counselor
National Board Certified Counselor
Joy is a “therapreneur”—a therapist who has also become an entrepreneur by founding her own behavioral health practice—blending her expertise in banking, finance, higher education, and counseling. She takes a collaborative, strengths-based approach with the conviction that everyone possesses strengths regardless of their history, present circumstances, or individual abilities. This makes her especially well-suited for working with high-achieving individuals, including professionals, diligent students, and competitive athletes, when seeking to enhance their overall mental fitness and well-being.
She is keenly aware that there are unique challenges when reaching for the most out of life. She has helped competitive athletes develop resilience during high-pressure seasons and guided professionals in leveraging their strengths to manage stress more effectively. Additionally, she has supported military members, first responders, and their families as they navigate complex demands. Drawing from her personal experiences as an Air Force spouse of a frequently deployed special operations pilot, devoted Army Aviator’s mom, and Air Force daughter, Joy possesses a deep understanding of the specific struggles that military and first responder families often face in their day-to-day lives.
Joy earned her Master’s degree in Psychology from the University of West Florida, where she also had the opportunity to teach as a faculty member before transitioning into private practice. In addition to her work as a counselor and school psychologist, Joy is a professional educator, an engaging public speaker, and an award-winning writer and photographer. Actively involved in her community, she generously volunteers with a variety of educational, local government, and nonprofit organizations. Joy and her husband, who have been happily married for over 30 years, share a love for science, an enthusiasm for soccer, and an excitement for cheering on the Florida Gators, SMU Mustangs, UT-Dallas Comets, Texas A&M Aggies, FIU Panthers, and the San Antonio Futbol Club all while celebrating the wonders of life with their three treasured adult children and their spouses.
Patient Age Ranges: Older Adults (65+), Adults (20-64), Teens (14-19), and Pre-teens/Tweens (11-13)
Licensed in Florida and Texas
