Joy Jimenez-Lopez

Doctoral Practicum Student

Pronouns: She/Her

Therapeutic Style: Patient, Curious and Compassionate

Works with:

• Child/Family
• Teens
• Individuals
• Couples
• Adult Families

Who I am as a Therapist

As a therapist, I approach my work through a systemic, behavioral, and attachment-based lens, meaning I value understanding people within the context of their relationships, environments, and lived experiences. I believe therapy is not about “fixing” people, but about creating space for understanding, growth, connection, and meaningful change. My goal is to walk alongside you with curiosity, compassion, and intention as we make sense of the challenges bringing you into therapy while also recognizing the strengths you already carry.

When working with couples and families, I strive to create a space where everyone feels heard, respected, and safe enough to be honest and vulnerable. Together, we work toward building deeper understanding, improving communication, strengthening relationships, and creating changes that feel realistic and sustainable. I do not believe my role is to steer the boat for you, but rather to help guide and support you as we navigate difficult moments together.

In my work with children, I strongly believe therapy works best when families are involved. I draw from family-based approaches such as PCIT and Incredible Years to support not only the child, but the relationship between caregivers and children. My hope is to help create environments where children feel seen, heard, and understood, while also helping families build connection, confidence, and tools for managing everyday challenges together.

With teenagers, I value authenticity, collaboration, humor, creativity, and compassion. Adolescence can be a complicated and vulnerable stage of life, and I aim to create a space where teens feel comfortable showing up as themselves, exploring their experiences, and feeling genuinely heard, empowered, and supported.

Specialty Areas

Therapeutic Approaches 

• Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT)
• Attachment Based Therapy
• Child Parent Psychotherapy (CPP)
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Collaborative Problem Solving (CPS)
• Intergenerational Family Therapy
• Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS)
• Mindfulness
• Motivational Interviewing (MI)
• Narrative Therapy
• Play Therapy
• Psychodynamic
• Socio-Emotional Relationship Therapy

Who I am when I'm not a Therapist

When I’m not a therapist, you can usually find me creating meaning in life’s simple moments, whether that’s taking peaceful walks in the park, enjoying brunch with friends, capturing candid photos of my cats, expressing creativity through nail art, or finding tranquility in solo sports and quiet reflection.

Training & Experience  

• Experience working in school-based settings, providing evaluations for ADHD and academic concerns, and offering bilingual support in both Spanish and English