Grief counselors and therapists in Gaithersburg, MD

Hi, I’m Joi Dyson, LCSW-C — a therapist, life coach, and intuitive healer with 20 years of experience helping women break free from patterns that no longer serve them.

I specialize in working with women in their who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected — even when everything looks fine on the outside. Many of my clients are professionals, caregivers, or creatives navigating issues like perfectionism, depression, anxiety, childhood trauma, or chronic relationship struggles. You may have accomplished a lot — yet still carry a quiet, persistent feeling of “not enough.”

I am a Maryland Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical, dedicated to supporting individuals through life's challenges with compassion and expertise. As a proud veteran of the Iraq War (2005-2006), I bring a unique understanding and empathy to those who have served, along with a commitment to serving all communities.

I hold a Master of Social Work Degree with a primary concentration in Clinical Practice and a specialization in Health—Child, Adolescent, and Family Health (CAFH)—from the University of Maryland School of Social Work.

My practice welcomes adults from 18 to 65+ years old. I am especially dedicated to serving veterans, service members, LGBTQ+ individuals, new mothers, and older adults. Whether you're navigating mental health concerns, life transitions, or seeking personal growth, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space tailored to your unique needs.

Together, we can work toward resilience, healing, and a more fulfilling life. Reach out today to start your journey to well-being.

I am an experienced therapist, licensed in Maryland, Ohio, Missouri, and Kansas. I will be your partner and tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I have a master’s degree from the Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences at Case Western Reserve University. I have been described as supportive, direct, caring, and compassionate, with a good sense of humor. I like to focus on identifying your strengths and helping you maximize them.

Throughout my graduate and professional experiences, I have had the privilege of working with individuals from diverse backgrounds on issues including anxiety, self-esteem and identity, stress management, and life transitions. As a mother, I also have a passion for supporting expecting and new mothers as they prepare for and adjust to expanding their families. I prioritize developing a supportive, collaborative relationship with each client, helping them feel heard, understood, and empowered as they navigate life’s challenges.

Happiness and joy isn't a fairytale. Let's figure out how you can experience it.

Updated May 2026

Therapy for women whose inner critic never clocks out, and for men who have mastered success but not their emotions. I’m the therapist for you if you find yourself feeling guilty for not being "productive," struggling to sleep at night because your mind is racing, or feeling like your values are at odds with what's expected of you. If you're having trouble saying no to people without guilt, with a partner who is always wanting more from you, feeling guilt or shame for having needs and emotions, then I’m the person to help you extend success into your personal life.

Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, poor self-esteem, negative thoughts, unhealthy relationships or the inability to say NO! Are you tired of feeling like nothing will change or your stuck in life because you don't know what to do to make it better? I focus on adults using CBT, REBT, Person Centered and Motivational interviewing to assist clients in learning more about themselves and their perspective on life. I have experience working with many different mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, stress, marital/relationship issues and career struggles to name a few.