Joshua is a licensed clinical social worker and alcohol and drug counselor who believes in the indomitable strength of the human spirit. His client-centered and trauma-informed approach blends professional training with a Buddhist psychology background and nearly two decades of meditation experience to offer grounded, compassionate care. LINK/BRIDGE Josh earned his undergraduate degree in Psychology and Philosophy, as well as his Master’s in Clinical Social Work from Rutgers University. He also completed the Addiction Certificate Training (ACT) program through Rutgers Graduate School of Social Work. 

A certified Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapist, he also integrates parts-based Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (CBT and DBT, respectively) and mindfulness practices in his therapeutic work. His knowledge of neuroscience enables him to provide the skills, education, and resources to help people learn to soothe their nervous system and connect with their values. 

Josh has an extensive history of clinical practice with diverse client populations in a variety of outpatient, inpatient, and in-home settings. Working well across the neurodiversity spectrum, he brings a respectful responsiveness to however clients understand and interpret the world. After four years running a weekly family program for a large treatment center, he is also exceptionally capable in working with families and other supports.

Sober since 2007 and shaped by the experience of a tumultuous childhood, his own lived experience means he understands firsthand how painful moments, periods of upheaval, and feeling misunderstood—from very human differences in brain to nervous system function—can come to define and keep people stuck. He emphasizes getting unstuck not in chasing “growth” but in the simplicity in healing through connection, non-judgment, affirmation, and empowerment.

Fulfilled by his work in behavioral health, Josh cannot overstate how a decade of working as a barista in full-time food service ranks among his proudest professional achievements. His special interests include anime/manga, video-games, litRPG, role playing, and comics. Drawing from his passion for nerd and geek culture, he deeply understands the importance of meaning, narrative, and creativity in the healing journey. 

He believes The Living Room offers something truly exceptional and transformative to its members. Eager to contribute his unique experiences and perspectives, he’s equally excited to learn from the people he works along with and serves.