Policar Joy PhD

Thank you for your interest in my psychotherapy practice. I am a licensed psychologist with a private practice located in the heart of downtown Davis. I have been in practice for over a decade, serving a wide variety of clients including teens, college/graduate students, and adults of all ages. I bring a down-to-earth, eclectic approach to guiding individuals through a process of transformation. I feel privileged to work as a psychologist, as I find it to be the most meaningful and rewarding work I have ever done.

About Me: My Professional Background & Training

I began my career in my early twenties in clothing and department stores as a manager. I enjoyed the social nature of the work, but wanted to impact people's lives through education using the skills and knowledge I acquired while earning my Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Humanities. So, in my mid-twenties, I returned to college and earned a Single Subject Teaching Credential in English. I spent the next 13 years teaching secondary reading and English.

Although I recognized I made a difference in the lives of young people, I wanted to understand them at a deeper level in order to help with psychological issues. So, I returned to school and earned a Master of Science degree in Educational Counseling and subsequently became a high school guidance counselor for five years. The counseling of students and their parents was deeply satisfying, but I longed to learn more about psychological issues outside of the educational setting. Again, I returned to school and began the long journey toward a Ph. D. in Psychology and a license to practice as a Psychologist. My professional experience combined with the excellent training I received as an intern at Yolo Family Service Agency and Yolo County Mental Health set me on the path to opening a private practice.

Specialties

I specialize in providing psychotherapy services for:

• Depression/Anxiety
• Grief/Loss/Transitions
• Adolescent Issues/Parenting
• Attention Deficit Disorder
• Academic Challenges
• Spiritual Issues

Approach & Orientation

My approach to psychotherapy is eclectic, drawing from various theoretical orientations to best fit the needs of my clients. I believe that the relationship between client and therapist provides the bedrock for growth, change, and healing in the therapy process. I strive to create a warm, empathic, and non-judgmental environment where clients feel safe to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I view psychotherapy as a collaborative process, and I work closely with my clients to help them achieve their goals.

Contact Me / Fees

If you are interested in learning more about my psychotherapy practice or would like to schedule an appointment, please feel free to contact me. I am happy to answer any questions you may have. My fee for a 50-minute session is $150. I am not able to accept insurance, but I can provide you with a receipt that you can submit to your insurance company for reimbursement if your plan allows for out-of-network providers.

Thank you for considering my psychotherapy practice. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you.