- Person-centered approach
- Strengths-based work
- Practical coping skills
About Joanne
Joanne (Jody) Girou is a Licensed Master Social Worker who helps people facing stress, anxiety, parenting challenges, relationship worries, and money-related strain. She aims to make therapy feel calm and approachable so people can talk about hard things without judgment. Jody draws on two decades of social work experience to support practical change and better day-to-day coping.
Her style is relaxed and person-centered. Sessions focus on using a client's existing strengths to set small, achievable goals. She works with people dealing with ADHD, autism, trauma and abuse, grief, low self-esteem, anger, and depression, among other concerns.
Jody mixes practical skills with psychological approaches like acceptance and commitment, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavior, mindfulness, and solution-focused methods. She helps clients learn coping skills, manage emotional intensity, and take steps toward clearer priorities at home and work. Therapy conversations are straightforward and rooted in everyday life.
With 24 years in the field, Jody brings experience across child and adult services in Michigan. She supports people navigating family of origin issues, blended family challenges, adoption and foster care questions, caregiver stress, commitment and communication problems, and life transitions. Her aim is to help clients build patterns that reduce overwhelm and improve functioning.
Jody invites clients to set the pace and focus of work together. She emphasizes practical tools, steady support, and real-world solutions aimed at lasting change.
Therapeutic approaches and online care
Jody uses approaches like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help people notice what matters and change unhelpful patterns. ACT focuses on clarifying values and taking committed action even when emotions are difficult. CBT helps identify and reframe thought and behavior patterns that keep problems going.She also draws on Dialectical Behavior Therapy skills and mindfulness practices to build emotional regulation and present-moment awareness. DBT-style skills teach practical ways to tolerate distress, improve emotion control, and strengthen interpersonal effectiveness.
Finding the right approach is part of the work. Jody will collaborate with each person to choose methods that fit their goals, needs, and preferences. That collaborative process helps tailor skill-building and steps to the client's life.
If you are considering online therapy, confirm the specific session formats available before booking since the biography does not list formats. Many clients appreciate online work because it can make scheduling easier, reduce commute time, and allow shorter check-ins when needed. Discussing how sessions fit into daily routines helps make therapy a practical part of life rather than an added burden.
Areas of focus
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of concerns does she address?
She supports people with stress, anxiety, parenting and relationship challenges, ADHD, autism, trauma and abuse, grief, self-esteem, anger, depression, and related life changes.
What is her therapy style like?
The approach is supportive, relaxed, and non-judgmental. Sessions emphasize using a client's strengths and setting small, practical goals.
How much experience does she have?
Jody has 24 years of experience working in social work with both children and adults in Michigan.
What credentials and location apply to her practice?
She holds a Licensed Master Social Worker credential - MI LMSW - and practices in Michigan.
Are sessions available in other languages or internationally?
Sessions are offered in English and she is not currently accepting international clients.
Which session formats are offered?
The original biography does not specify session formats; please confirm current session options before booking.
How is cost handled for sessions?
Cost varies with location and therapist availability; sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
How do I begin working with her?
Click the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule according to therapist availability.