Nourishing the Mind, One Meal at a Time.
Food is more than just fuel—it’s a source of comfort, connection, and creativity. For many, the act of cooking or sharing a meal can be a therapeutic experience, a way to slow down, engage the senses, and nourish both the body and mind. Food has the power to evoke memories, cultivate joy, and provide a moment of respite in our often busy lives.
Food can also serve as a form of self-expression, allowing us to explore cultures, experiment with flavors, and nourish our creativity. Whether you find joy in meticulously plating a dish, discovering new ingredients at a local market, or improvising a meal with whatever is in your pantry, the process of making and sharing food can be deeply fulfilling.
If you feel disconnected from your body, struggle to nourish yourself with self-love and body positivity, or find that your relationship with food is fraught with emotional distress, rigidity, or patterns of behavior that don’t align with your goals or values, we can help.
Food has a profound impact on mental health. Nutrient-dense foods can support brain function, boost mood, and help reduce stress. Omega-3 fatty acids, complex carbohydrates, and vitamins like B12 and D play an essential role in emotional well-being. But beyond the science, food carries deep emotional significance—it can remind us of home, provide comfort in difficult times, and foster a sense of belonging.
Research has shown that our gut health is closely linked to mental health, with the gut often being referred to as the “second brain.” A balanced diet rich in whole foods can improve gut microbiota, leading to better emotional regulation and resilience against anxiety and depression. However, food is more than just its nutritional components; it is also an experience, an act of self-care, and a form of self-expression.
The Healing Power of Food
Join the Conversation
Do you have a favorite recipe that brings you comfort? A go-to meal that helps you unwind after a long day? We’d love to hear from you! Share your foodie experiences with us and let’s celebrate the joy of food together.
At Joy Spring Mental Health, we understand that healing takes many forms—and for some, it begins in the kitchen. Let’s nourish our minds and bodies, one bite at a time.
Food & Community
Sharing a meal with others fosters connection and reminds us that we’re not alone. Whether it’s gathering around a dinner table, cooking with a loved one, or exchanging recipes with friends, food has the power to bring people together in meaningful ways. The simple act of breaking bread can strengthen relationships and provide a sense of support and camaraderie.
At Joy Spring Mental Health, we encourage creating food rituals that nourish both body and soul. Whether it’s a Sunday family brunch, a solo dinner with a good book, or a virtual cooking session with friends, these small acts can cultivate joy and stability in our lives.
Answers to Your Questions about Mental Healthcare
General Mental Health Basics
We offer both as my schedule allows. In general, we have more availability for medication appointments. If you are interested in both and our therapy slots are full, we will help you connect with another therapist while we manage your medication.
This will be determined during your intake appointment. Brief appointments are ideal for time-limited specific concerns or for clients who are stable and transitioning out of recurring therapy or have already been in recurring therapy in the past. It is also helpful for clients who have challenging schedules or financial concerns that do not accommodate recurring therapy.
No! we see young adults and young-at-heart adults from diverse backgrounds. We have additional training and experience working with the college health and perinatal mental health populations but you do not have to identify with those groups to receive care.
We do not at this time.
Depression, anxiety, social anxiety, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, ADHD (with non-stimulants only)
No. Our services are offered predominantly through telehealth and I do not prescribe any controlled substances.
Yes. Clients who live locally, may request an in-person appointment.
Yes. We know how challenging juggling all these responsibilities can be and we will make a plan that will help you succeed all aspects of your life-including academic life.
What to expect for Virtual Appointments
Yes, in order to provide effective care, we must be able to see you. You are not required to use your camera for asynchronous classes.
No, you will need to reschedule. Please be aware there is a cancellation fee for appointments not cancelled within 24 hours.
The best feature of having a virtual appointment option is the convenience! Come as you are, baby drool, messy house, and all. You must be clothed (shirts required, and you may not be using mind altering substances during your appointment.
You will be able to access your appointment from any device with internet and a camera. Due to state licensing regulations, you must be in NC or VA at the time of your appointment. Please try to give yourself a quiet and private place. (Some patients find their vehicles (parked-not driving!) or bathroom to be great escape locations for their appointment.
Practice Policies for clients seeking 1-on-1mental healthcare
Yes, we will collaborate with your individual therapist.
No. Due to the boundaries established by the DEA system, providers cannot prescribe controlled substances to patients they have not initially seen in person. It is anticipated that the COVID pandemic exception will expire. That said, we have many modalities that are safe and effective and provide a long-term solutions so that controlled substances may not be necessary. We are committed to helping patients connect with their best-selves (which involves the courageous exploration of a values-driven life, rather than avoidance and symptom management).
Yes. Please plan to sign a release of information so we can communicate with your medication provider as needed.