Joe Nelson

Hi, I'm Dr. Joe Cornel Nelson, DSW, LCSW. I am a licensed clinical social worker with a Doctorate in Social Work. My approach to therapy is client-centered, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome their personal challenges and lead fulfilling lives. I currently have 17 specialties in helping clients with stress, anxiety, and relational concerns, and much more!

My approach

My therapeutic approach is integrative, meaning I tailor my methods to fit the unique needs of each client. I primarily utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialect Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to help clients challenge and change unhelpful thought patterns, and Solution-Focused Therapy to quickly identify and leverage strengths toward achieving immediate goals. Additionally, I incorporate elements of mindfulness and person-centered therapy to ensure a compassionate and holistic treatment experience.

My focus

I typically work with adults and adolescents who are dealing with high-risk cases, anxiety, depression, stress management, and relationship issues. I am particularly comfortable treating mood disorders and helping individuals navigate life transitions. I help from pre-natal all the way to palliative oncology care. My practice is inclusive, and I strive to provide a supportive environment for individuals from diverse backgrounds.

My communication style

My communication style is warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental and with some humor. I strive to create a safe, supportive space where clients feel heard and understood. My sessions are a collaborative process, marked by active listening and open dialogue, fostering a trusting therapeutic relationship. The best way to describe my communication is very laid back.

My journey to mental healthcare

My journey to becoming a therapist was driven by a deep desire to help others navigate life’s difficulties and find their path to healing and growth. I have always been passionate about understanding human behavior and providing care that makes a tangible difference in people’s lives. This drive led me to pursue advanced training in social work and ultimately earn my Doctorate in Social Work. I am committed to continuous learning and am deeply inspired by the resilience and strength of my clients. I was originally adopted from Romania and grew up with a learning disability, which I overcame through perseverance and dedication, ultimately achieving my doctorate degree. My personal experiences have instilled in me a deep empathy and understanding for those who struggle. As a child, I was not the easiest to manage, making me intimately aware of the challenges faced by many of my clients. Throughout my journey, I have made a conscious effort to diversify my education and training so that I can assist with a wide range of issues. My goal as a therapist has always been to provide a comprehensive, one-stop approach to therapy, addressing multiple facets of my clients' lives and encouraging them to achieve lasting change. I believe in empowering my clients to gain the tools they need, so they do not have to depend on therapy indefinitely. My aim is to equip you with the resources and resilience to navigate life independently and confidently. As a fun fact, I have also dabbled in stand-up comedy, which I sometimes bring into my therapeutic approach because we all need a good laugh once in a while. I strive to make therapy feel as comfortable and reassuring as being at home wrapped up in a blanket, fostering an environment where you can openly talk and feel understood. By integrating humor and warmth into my sessions, I aim to make the therapeutic process engaging and enjoyable, alongside effective and transformative.

My goals for you

I approach goal setting as a collaborative process. In our initial sessions, we will discuss your hopes and goals for therapy. Together, we will break down these goals into achievable steps and regularly review and adjust them as needed. This ensures that the therapy remains focused and effective.

My first session with you

During the first session, I focus on getting to know you and understanding the issues that brought you to therapy. We will discuss your history, current challenges, and what you hope to achieve through our work together. This session sets the foundation for a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.