FOUNDER | CEO and Clinical Director

At the intersection of leadership and clinical expertise, I drive Joy Academy LLC with a clear mission: to elevate mental health care while building lasting organizational strength. As both CEO and Clinical Therapist, I dedicate my work to developing effective treatment strategies and steering Joy Academy’s rise as a standard for psychological wellness.

My method is rooted in integrative and comprehensive practice, informed by advancing research in clinical psychology and my active PsyD training. At Joy, we deliver tailored care with respect and precision, ensuring every client’s progress is prioritized. As our reach grows, my commitment to mental health advocacy remains resolute, anchored in the belief that quality therapeutic care is a right, not a privilege.

Tech. Psychometrician Level I, (Interim) and Exec. Assistant,

Vanessa serves Joy Academy with precision and care, blending her expertise as a Psychometrician Level I with her leadership as Interim Executive Assistant. In her psychometric role, she administers and scores Level I Mental Health Assessments with accuracy, ensuring reliable data that supports clinical decision-making. As Interim Executive Assistant, she provides vital organizational support, coordinating operations and facilitating communication across the team.

Her commitment to professionalism, confidentiality, and client-centered service reflects Joy Academy’s mission to deliver excellence at every level of care and leadership.

Assoc. M.S. Level Clinical Therapist/Evaluator

As Associate Clinical Therapeutic Evaluator one of my responsibilities is assessing clients' therapeutic needs, monitoring their treatment progress, and assisting with treatment planning in clinical or community mental health settings. My role often requires strong observational and analytical skills, knowledge of therapeutic modalities, and proficiency in clinical assessment tools.

Assoc. Licensed Clinical Therapist/Evaluator

A dedicated and highly skilled Healthcare Management Consultant and Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 15 years of progressive leadership in the mental health field. My specialization includes clinical assessments, treatment planning, and extensive experience working with psychiatric disorders, including behavioral health and substance use disorders. I have a demonstrated ability to integrate clinical practice with healthcare management, fostering environments that support mental health recovery and enhance access to quality care through education and policy improvement. I hold a strong commitment to cultural competence and cultural humility, ensuring that my practice is inclusive and sensitive to the needs of diverse populations.

Assoc. Licensed Clinical Therapist/Evaluator

Samuel Lang, PsyD(c), LMHC, brings a strong clinical background shaped by years of frontline work in substance abuse, individual counseling, and group therapy. Currently pursuing his Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.). Mr. Lang combines advanced academic training with hands-on experience to support clients through evidence-based treatment and compassionate care.

His professional path includes leadership as Assistant Clinical Director at Pines Recovery Life, where he coordinated multidisciplinary care, oversaw clinical operations, and developed strategies to reduce high-risk behaviors. With previous roles at Safe Futures Behavioral Health and Pines Recovery Life, Samuel has guided clients through recovery, facilitated therapy groups, and created individualized treatment plans tailored to diverse needs.