Theater Directors to interview

Joel is a complex trauma therapist with a specialization in dissociative disorders. He runs a mental health collective in Birmingham Alabama. His focus as a therapist is on cutting edge brain based medicine for trauma and depth psychology. He received his BA in comparative religion from Sewanee: The University of the South and his Master’s in Social Work with adults and families from The University of Alabama. Across his 10 year career he has run a youth program for adolescents, worked with geriatric memory care patients, and worked with a community mental health program in service of chronically homeless patients with schizophrenia and severe mental illness. Joel’s academic areas of study include mythology, world religions, Jungian psychology, trauma theories, philosophy, ancient history, and cultural anthropology; as well as the history and philosophy of psychotherapy practice. Joel uses his diversity of academic and professional experience in therapy through an eclectic integration of many techniques for growth, healing, and meaning. Joel believes that therapy must begin with a genuine appreciation for each patient’s unique story and individuality. Joel is an somatic therapy, EMDR and Brainspotting trained clinician who often utilizes parts-based therapies and existential approaches to help clients overcome problems in a supportive and non-judgmental environment. He specializes in helping clients harness their own creativity and strengths to overcome barriers for growth and healing. When treating trauma, Joel uses a “trauma map” to allow patients to understand how trauma is affecting their emotional reality, physical sensations, somatic feelings, posture, communication style, and unconscious reactions. ​ In his personal life, Joel is an avid reader and home chef. He spends most weekends hiking and enjoying the outdoors with his wife and children. He is passionate about travel and exploring new cultures as well as new ways of being. In addition to working as a therapist, he also works as a photographer and writer. Got a question for Joel? Email: JoelBlackstock@GetTherapyBirmingham.com