Joy Rumsey, MD, LCSW-C

Joy Rumsey, MD, LCSW-C helps people who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or worn down by life’s changes. She speaks plainly and works with clients to set clear goals and practical steps. Sessions focus on learning skills to manage difficult thoughts, strong emotions, and unhelpful behaviors so day-to-day life feels more manageable.

Joy uses approaches that break big problems into smaller, workable pieces. She encourages clients to draw on their own strengths while trying new ways to respond to stress and relationships. The focus is on real tools that can be used between sessions.

She trained in social work and holds a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago. Joy is also a medical doctor and holds the MD and the LCSW-C credential. Over 13 years she has worked in hospitals, schools, and outpatient settings across Maryland.

Her experience includes working with adults facing mood disorders, substance use concerns, grief, and major life transitions. She has experience facilitating outpatient programs and helping people through family conflict and relational strain. That background shapes a practical, skills-centered approach.

In sessions she blends methods like cognitive behavioral therapy with acceptance-focused and skills-based strategies. The aim is steady progress through targeted practice and clear steps. Anyone looking for straightforward guidance and skill development may find her helpful.

How these approaches translate to online care

Joy commonly uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy in session. CBT focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thoughts and behaviors through clear, practiceable steps. It often helps with anxiety, depression, and managing mood shifts. ACT encourages noticing difficult feelings and choosing actions based on values rather than emotion, which can help with coping during life transitions and with persistent stress.

Finding the right approach is part of the work. The therapist will talk with the client about goals, preferences, and what feels most useful. Together they decide which methods to try and adjust the plan as progress is made to fit the person's needs.

Online sessions are offered by video call, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging to make therapy more flexible. Video can support face-to-face conversation and visual cues. Phone sessions can be easier when bandwidth is limited or for a midday check-in. Live chat and text messaging work well for brief updates, homework check-ins, or when a client prefers typed communication. These options help people fit skill practice and therapy into their regular routines.