Joey Guzman-Kuffel, M.A., LMFT

Joey is a Southern California native who was born and raised in Los Angeles. He began his career serving others as a medical interpreter for Spanish-Speaking clients in the field of worker’s compensation. Through his experience as a medical interpreter, Joey developed a passion for working with people from diverse backgrounds. In 2012 he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from California State University, Los Angeles. Following completion of his undergraduate education, Joey worked as a Behavioral Specialist with children with autism utilizing Applied Behavioral Analysis techniques and as a Child and Family Specialist providing behavior interventions for at-risk youth. Simultaneously, Joey completed the requirements for a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology from Argosy University, San Diego, with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy. Joey underwent clinical training at Hanbleceya Treatment Center under the supervision of clinical psychologist, Karlyn Pleasants, Psy.D. While at Hanbleceya, now BrightQuest Treatment Center, Joey acquired the clinical skills to help individuals and families who suffered from trauma, mood, thought, anxiety, and personality disorders and drug-induced psychosis. In August of 2017, Joey relocated temporarily to Newport, Rhode Island in support of his spouse’s military mobilization. While on the east coast Joey was employed as a clinician at an intense out-patient program for North American Family Institute that focused on underserved families experiencing difficulties with mental health and behavioral issues. Joey also worked closely with the LGBTQ community in assisting individuals explore the dimensions of gender identity.

Having been an intended parent and having a daughter through surrogacy, Joey came to realize the important role that mental health professionals play in the IVF and surrogacy process. This led him to transition from working in treatment centers to founding his own private practice, Counseling with Joey.