Joy Lei, AMFT

I use a therapeutic approach that integrates psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, and humanistic models to best meet the needs of my clients depending on where they are at in their mental health and the issues they want to address.

My experience as a Chinese American woman and my previous career in social justice education have provided me with the knowledge of how the oppressive structure of our society contributes to people’s internal and external conflicts and the impact of current and historical trauma on our sense of self and sense of belonging. 

Being in my 50s, I bring a lifetime of insight and experience to my work with clients that allow me to both relate to my clients and guide them to identify their strengths and understand how to build upon them to heal and grow as a healthy person. 

Types of clients treated:

• Age 14+ (teens and adults)
• Individuals
• Couples
• Families

Types of therapies or interventions used:

• Psychodynamic
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Humanistic
• Gottman Method (for couples)

Types of mental health issues treated:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Trauma (adult, childhood, intergenerational, structural and PTSD)
• Identity exploration
• Life transitions

Licenses/Certifications: 

• Associate Marriage & Family Therapist (AMFT), #117183; currently working under the direct supervision of licensed clinical social work supervisor Daniel Brezenoff, #23543.

Education: 

• M.S., California State University, Long Beach

Availability: 

• Long Beach, CA 
• Telehealth

Years of experience: 5 

Why I became a Therapist:

It has always been important to me that I work in a profession where I am able to help people, which is what being a therapist allows me to do. I have been in therapy on and off for many years and appreciate and respect the therapists who have helped me in the development of my mental health. They inspired me to go back to school to become a psychotherapist so I am able to do the same with others.