JOY FREILICH, LPC

Life can be hard. Sometimes we have difficulty communicating with our partner, boss, children, or our parents. Sometimes we have difficulty adjusting to a new environment or new life circumstances. At times, we may feel stuck and unsure of how to make changes in our lives. Other times we may want to delve deeper and truly understand our motivations and desires. Sometimes we just need to feel heard and understood. Having an unbiased, non-judgmental person to talk to can help.

I firmly believe that the key components to a successful therapeutic experience are the individual’s commitment to the process and a trusted relationship with the therapist so my primary goal is to create a non-judgmental and space safe where my clients can feel comfortable sharing. I actively engage in meaningful conversations with my clients, striving to understand their concerns and desires by meeting them where they are. I work collaboratively with them to explore different perspectives and bridge the gap between their current state of being and living their most fulfilled lives. I truly believe that self-exploration and motivation can lead to growth and positive change.

I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families on a wide range of topics, including but not limited to:

• Anxiety and stress management
• Depression
• Self-esteem
• Personal growth
• Healthy communication
• Navigating difficult life changes
• Differentiation and identity development
• Vocational decision making
• Work/life balance
• Relationships, marriage and family-related issues
• Parenting
• Maternal mental health

I am especially passionate about working with women and couples on perinatal and postpartum challenges and infertility struggles. I am not wed to any one particular theoretical orientation, but rather draw upon various frameworks. My approach is client-centered, non-judgmental, empathetic, collaborative, integrative and family systems-oriented.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia, as well as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York. I obtained my undergraduate degree from Emory University, a master's degree in Counseling from New York University, and a master's degree in Educational Leadership from Columbia University. I have more than 20 years of counseling experience, including extensive post-graduate training in Marriage and Family Therapy at The Ackerman Institute for the Family, The Institute for Contemporary Psychotherapy, and The Link Counseling Center, where I completed a three-year residency. I have received specialized training in both Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and The Gottman Method, and I am a Gottman-certified Bringing Baby Home educator. Additionally, I completed Postpartum Support International's Advanced Certification Training in Perinatal Mental Health Psychotherapy.

“Life is a journey, not a destination.” The same can be said of therapy. It is a process and it can be difficult, but it is beautiful and transformative as well. I would be honored to join you on your journey.