Race/Ethnicity

Black/African American

Language(s)

English

Hi, I’m Dr. Joan Blakey!

Pronouns

She/Her

Licensure/Certifications

Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW)

Education

PhD, Social Work: University of Chicago

Biography

I am a licensed social worker specializing in supporting children, adolescents, families, and adults as they navigate life’s challenges. My practice focuses on helping clients work through abuse, academic stress, adoption, breakups, career counseling, dating, depression, family conflict, forgiveness, grief and loss, guilt and shame, job loss, race-based trauma, and other forms of trauma and recovery. I also provide support for those managing work stress and balancing the complexities of modern life.

In our work together, I aim to create a safe, supportive, and compassionate space where clients feel empowered to heal from past experiences and build resilience for the future. My approach integrates evidence-based practices tailored to the unique needs of each client. I commonly use modalities such as trauma-informed care, mindfulness techniques, strengths-based approaches, and cognitive-behavioral strategies to foster growth and self-compassion.

Therapy is a collaborative journey, and I am honored to walk alongside my clients as they navigate their paths toward healing and fulfillment. Whether you’re seeking support for a specific concern or exploring personal growth, I am here to help you connect with your strengths, deepen your self-understanding, and build the life you envision.

Clinical Interests

I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and families, as well as adults navigating significant life changes. I am particularly drawn to supporting individuals dealing with abuse, trauma, grief and loss, race-based trauma, academic stress, and career challenges.

What drives my connection to this work is the diversity of human experience and the opportunity to help clients rediscover their strengths. My training and experience have equipped me to provide specialized care to individuals facing life-altering events, helping them heal from their past and create a meaningful future. I have a deep respect for the courage it takes to seek help, and I aim to meet clients with a skillset grounded in trauma-informed care, mindfulness, and evidence-based practices.

Clinical Approach

In the therapy room, I show up as a compassionate and engaged partner in your healing journey. My approach is collaborative, meeting clients where they are while fostering growth and insight. I adjust my style to the needs of each individual—whether that means moving at a slower, reflective pace or working with assertive goal-oriented clients who want actionable steps forward.

Clients can expect sessions to be a safe space for exploring their experiences, building coping strategies, and deepening self-awareness. I am patient and supportive with those who take time to warm up, yet also comfortable offering direct guidance when needed. My goal is to create a partnership that feels empowering and restorative, tailoring the process to fit your unique path.

Hobbies

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, finding joy in the simple moments of connection and laughter. I love exploring new cuisines, traveling to experience different cultures, and recharging through music and creative outlets. Whether it’s diving into a good book or savoring a walk outdoors, I am passionate about finding balance and inspiration in life’s everyday moments.

 

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