Dr. Joy McElveen, LCSW
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy
- Mindfulness and ACT
- Video and phone sessions
About Dr. Joy McElveen
Dr. McElveen practices from a hope-centered stance, encouraging clients to notice small shifts that allow them to take another breath and move forward. Her clinical approach is grounded in Dialectical Behavior Therapy with supplemental applications drawn from Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. She holds certifications in the treatment approaches she uses and views the therapeutic relationship as a partnership - the client does the work and she steps alongside to support that effort.
She earned a BA in sociology from Louisiana State University (now UNO), a Master of Social Work from the University of Michigan (Ann Arbor), and a doctorate from Howard University School of Social Work. Dr. McElveen is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker - LCSW - and brings a compassionate, pragmatic, and hope-oriented perspective to clients seeking change.
Areas of Expertise
Primary Focus
Also Specializes In
Additional Focus Areas
Therapeutic Approach
Frequently Asked Questions
How much experience does Dr. Joy McElveen have?
Dr. Joy McElveen has 35 years of experience.
Is Dr. Joy McElveen a licensed therapist?
Yes. Dr. Joy McElveen is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). License details are CT LCSW 14777 and LA LCSW 2171.
In which languages does Dr. Joy McElveen provide therapy?
Dr. Joy McElveen provides therapy in English.
Where is Dr. Joy McElveen located?
Dr. Joy McElveen is located in Louisiana.
How can I work with Dr. Joy McElveen as my therapist?
You can work with Dr. Joy McElveen through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.
Does Dr. Joy McElveen work with international clients?
Dr. Joy McElveen does not currently work with international clients.
How much does therapy with Dr. Joy McElveen cost?
The cost of therapy can vary depending on factors such as your location and the therapist's availability. Sessions are billed through a subscription that can be canceled at any time, for any reason. For current details, click the "Start Therapy" button on this page.
How can I get started with therapy?
Getting started with therapy is quick and straightforward. Click the "Start Therapy" button and complete a short questionnaire that helps match you with your therapist. Depending on availability, you can then schedule your first session, which may take place by phone, video call, live chat, or in-app messaging.
Evidence-Based Approaches and Online Care
Dr. Joy McElveen integrates Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Mindfulness-based strategies alongside Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help clients manage difficult emotions and move toward meaningful life goals. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) teaches practical skills for emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and healthier relationships, which can be helpful for intense emotions, anger, and stress. Mindfulness Therapy encourages present-moment awareness and nonjudgmental observation of thoughts and feelings, supporting coping with anxiety, depression, and the challenges of life transitions. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) focuses on clarifying personal values and taking committed action despite uncomfortable thoughts or feelings, which can aid in addressing depression, avoidance, and problems with motivation.Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. Dr. McElveen works collaboratively with each person to explore which techniques fit their needs, goals, and preferences, adjusting methods over time so therapy remains practical and personally meaningful.
Online therapy offers flexibility that fits many lifestyles - sessions by video call or phone, and options for live chat or text-based messaging make it easier to connect from home, work, or while caregiving. These remote formats can increase access to ongoing support, simplify scheduling, and allow clients and therapists to focus on progress within the context of daily life.