Aaliyah Joy Jones, MA, Mental Health Clinician

Aaliyah (she/her) is a master-level therapist at Joy

Aaliyah is a master-level therapist at Joy Mental Fitness, which has locations in Jersey City, New Jersey, and Boston, Massachusetts. Aaliyah also provides telehealth services to patients throughout New Jersey, Massachusetts, and Connecticut.

Personal Journey and Philosophy

My journey to becoming a clinician was sparked by my experience working in a psychiatric ward, where I noticed the lack of necessary tools and support for patients to cope with life’s struggles. Implementing structured and realistic group sessions, I saw immediate improvements, solidifying my belief in the power of human connection. My personal experience seeking a therapist who understood me as a Black woman also shaped my approach, emphasizing the importance of cultural understanding in therapy.

Clinical Approach

My approach is deeply influenced by my background and challenges. Having my daughter during the pandemic was a transformative experience, teaching me the importance of boundaries and self-discovery. This personal growth informs my therapeutic practice, allowing me to guide clients through their journeys of vulnerability and self-empowerment. I utilize Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and mindfulness practices in my sessions. I believe in equipping clients with practical tools and strategies to navigate life’s challenges, sometimes incorporating homework to reinforce these skills. Transparency and mutual understanding are at the core of my philosophy, fostering a therapeutic alliance that is conducive to achieving client goals.

Specializations

I work with mothers, young adults, couples, and individuals struggling with grief, anxiety, trauma, depression, and work-life balance, among other issues. I focus on three core components: boundaries, forgiveness, and self-care, which I believe are essential for every adult’s well-being.

Overall Impact and Goals

I strive to empower my clients on their journeys toward wholeness by promoting authenticity and balance. The most rewarding aspect of my work is witnessing the significant growth my clients achieve in a relatively short time. My ultimate goal is for my clients to find joy and contentment beyond their initial objectives in therapy.

Inspirational Mantra

I resonate with the question, “How can you benefit from uncertainty?” I use this to help clients take control of their narratives, transforming anxiety and discomfort into opportunities for growth and self-discovery.

Advice for Prospective Clients

For those considering therapy, I advise entering the process ready to uncover deeply buried issues. Therapy is not a quick fix; it’s a journey that may initially feel heavy but ultimately leads to profound, long-lasting improvements. I reassure clients that they will process their challenges at their own pace, one step at a time.