Let’s Get to Know Each Other
My name is Andrew Joy, founder of The Mental Difference. I believe that it’s important for you to know about me so you can see if I’m the right fit for your journey. My story leading to the start of The Mental Difference is anything but ordinary.
As a youth hockey player in the Chicagoland area, I was diagnosed with cancer at the age of 15 and ended up beating it. However, the real battle started after the medical treatments ended and I struggled both mentally and emotionally with depression, anxiety, confidence and self-esteem issues. There were times when I felt the doctor removed more than just the cancer and that I wasn’t me anymore.
It was during this time that my parents suggested that I go talk to someone. Of course, I was not thrilled with that idea. However, with a little persuasion I went.
Thanks to the work I did with my therapist, I became interested in my own self-discovery and the therapeutic process. I began to regain that sense of self and a better understanding of my thoughts and emotions, which allowed me to have a better idea of who I wanted to be and where I wanted to go. This propelled me to experience academic and athletic success in college, then two years with a minor-league hockey team, and eventually graduate school at Boston University School of Medicine.
Oh yeah, do you remember that therapist I went to see?
20 years later, I still have a great relationship with him.
About Andrew Joy, LCPC, CMPC – Who I Am Now:
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC). I have been professionally in the field of Behavioral Health/Clinical Counseling and Sport/Performance Psychology for the past nine years. For the past 20 years, I have been studying those respective fields and implementing specific strategies for my personal, professional, and athletic growth.
Before founding TMD, I worked clinically with adolescents and adults who had a wide variety of clinical presentations. In 2014-2015, I was contracted as one of the Mental Skills coaches for the Stanley Cup Champion Chicago Blackhawks and their minor league affiliates. In addition to the Chicago Blackhawks, I have worked with a wide variety of individuals from youth athletes, adolescents, musicians and professionals both locally and on the East coast.
About me – Education:
Boston University School of Medicine – Master of Arts in Mental Health Counseling and Behavioral Medicine with a specialization in Sport Psychology Counseling
St. Michael’s College – Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Cum Laude
About me – Licensure:
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) – State of Illinois
Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) – State of Massachusetts
Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC)