Joan Paradis

Joan Paradis is a licensed clinical social worker who meets people where they are. She keeps sessions relaxed and conversational, and focuses on listening without judgment. Joan aims to help people manage stress, anxiety, grief, mood concerns, and other life changes with empathy and clear support.

Her style is straightforward and practical. Joan uses everyday language to help people talk through worries and make workable changes. She encourages small steps that fit into daily life rather than large, sudden shifts.

Joan draws on approaches such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Client-Centered techniques. These methods are used to help people notice what matters most, shift unhelpful thoughts, and build coping skills that feel right for them. Mindfulness and motivational interviewing are also part of her approach when helpful.

With 13 years of experience and an IL LCSW credential, Joan brings steady support for concerns like depression, bipolar mood issues, addictions, trauma and abuse, relationship strain, parenting stress, and compassion fatigue. She also works with people coping with natural or human-caused disasters, first responder issues, isolation or loneliness, workplace issues, and hospice and end-of-life counseling.

Joan aims to create a respectful space where individual values guide the work. She helps clients explore priorities, try new strategies, and adapt plans as life changes.

How Joan Uses Therapy Approaches Online

Joan commonly draws on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Client-Centered Therapy in her work. ACT helps people notice what truly matters and take small actions that match their values, often used for anxiety, depression, and coping with life changes. Client-Centered Therapy focuses on listening, empathy, and the person's own goals, which can help people feel understood and more able to try new ways of coping.

Finding the right approach is part of the process. Joan will work together with each person to figure out which methods fit their needs, goals, and preferences. She adjusts the focus over time based on what is helping and what needs to change.

Confirm current session options before booking so you know what formats are available. Online work can make it easier to fit sessions into a busy schedule, allow shorter check-ins when time is limited, and reduce travel time. Many people find it helpful to continue steady support during caregiving, grief, first responder stress, or when managing mood and workplace issues.