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Hi Reader,

I talk about many things in my newsletters, but I haven't shared much about the beating heart of my career: my psychotherapy practice. I'm a Marriage and Family Therapist (a.k.a Relationship therapist for individuals, but I work with many areas of life). I've spent 27 years in the mental health field, and I'm licensed to work with folks who live in California.

I currently have space available for new clients, so read on to see whether I might be a good fit for your needs!
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While I work with clients from many backgrounds and life experiences, I've been practicing therapy for many years now with a rooted passion for supporting people whose identities are marginalized and targeted. Here are a few examples:

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​Gender

It's a privilege to walk alongside clients who experience gender dysphoria. I enthusiastically support those who choose the path of medical transition, while offering additional strategies for managing gender dysphoria. This includes finding reliable ways to increase the experience of gender euphoria congruent with their identity!

It moves me to help clients with the ways that transitioning is or is not accepted by loved ones, to find and access affirming community, and to support them as they navigate changing relationship dynamics.
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​Race

My personal antiracist work, which will be ongoing throughout my life, shapes the way I work with BIPOC clients. We explore ways in which difficulties are created or compounded by oppressive systems, which often brings a sense of clarity, freedom from shame, and loyalty to self. It also opens up conversations about how to build the kind of care and support that brings more peace, joy, and rest.
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Being multiracial, I'm also sensitive to the lifelong loneliness that can come from not feeling a full sense of belonging within any of the racial communities in one's mix. It is an honor to be part of the transformative work of helping clients of mixed race anchor into a firmer sense of racial identity and belonging.

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​Neurodiversity

My own journey in this area has helped me to identify much more quickly when a client's neurotype diverges from the typical. I really delight in helping autistic and ADHD clients grow the self-knowledge that enables self-acceptance-- which has often taken such a hit through a lifetime of rejection and shame for their differences.

I believe that neurodivergence is a difference, not a disorder, but that the lack of support we face is disabling. I love helping neurodiverse clients find customized strategies for living lives of decreasing stress and increasing pleasure.
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These and other experiences of marginalization often intersect in the lives of my clients. More than anything, I find deep fulfillment in offering therapy in which every part of you is included, seen, and cared for.

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If you live anywhere in California and would like to explore whether we might be a good fit for therapy, I'd be happy to hear from you.

joymalek@gmail.com

626-594-5654
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With care,

Joy
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*No part of this newsletter is ever created with AI-- despite my love for the notorious em dash. From the themes I write about to the words I choose, I'm speaking to you from my heart.

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