Joy Giorgio, LMFT

Guiding adult individuals, couples, and families through life’s most difficult moments with compassion and evidence-based care.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in Arizona and a Certified Dialectical Behavior Therapist (DBTC). I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Integrative Studies in Human Relations from Arizona State University – Barrett Honors College, and my Master’s in Psychology from Chapman University in California.

In addition to my private practice, I have worked at Banner Thunderbird Medical Center for nearly 20 years. During my time there, I’ve facilitated counseling groups on the inpatient unit for individuals admitted due to suicidal or homicidal ideation, psychosis, or detox. I also lead the hospital’s Intensive Outpatient Program for Dialectical Behavior Therapy (IOP-DBT), supporting individuals who struggle with emotion regulation. My role in developing Banner’s chemical dependency and mental health programs has deepened my expertise in working with individuals from diverse backgrounds facing both mild and severe behavioral health challenges.

Beyond the hospital setting, I also facilitate psychoeducational groups and therapeutic workshops through my private practice and in collaboration with other local psychiatric offices. These offerings allow me to provide structured support and practical tools to clients navigating complex emotional and interpersonal struggles.

I enjoy sharing my knowledge through speaking and training. I’ve presented at national conferences, including the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) and the American Association of Suicidology (AAS). Locally, I’ve served as a consultant, trainer, and speaker for hospitals, universities, treatment centers, libraries, and media outlets. My work in psychological autopsies further equips me to consult with healthcare systems on suicide risk assessment, prevention strategies, and systems-level improvements.

As a Senior Adjunct Professor at Grand Canyon University, I stay engaged with the latest research and evidence-based practices. This allows me to not only prepare future clinicians but also apply the most up-to-date methods in my work with clients.

Earlier in my career, I worked at the Betty Ford Center (now Hazelden-Betty Ford) in California, where I supported individuals and families impacted by addiction and codependency. I’ve also counseled families in community mental health settings and worked with women and children in a domestic violence shelter, helping them heal both visible and invisible wounds.

Additionally, my personal experience and research on how children cope with interparental conflict after divorce have given me a deep understanding of high-conflict separations as well as family estrangement. I draw on research-informed strategies to support families through these transitions and help them build resilience and connection.