Joy-Hee Lee’s Journey: A Life of Service, Resilience, and Fulfillment

In life, paths often unfold in ways we never anticipate. Joy-Hee’s journey into the field of mental health and social work was neither planned nor foreseen, but rather a calling that emerged from her personal experiences, challenges, and an unwavering desire to help others. It is a journey defined by resilience, reflection, and a profound belief in the power of service.

From Korea to America: A Life Reimagined
A first-generation immigrant from South Korea, she arrived in the United States at the age of 32 to support her husband’s academic pursuits. For years, she devoted herself to raising her two children, managing her household, and running a small business, setting aside her personal aspirations.

As her children reached adulthood and embarked on their own journeys, Joy-Hee began to reflect on her life’s purpose. She realized she had always prioritized the needs of others—her family, her community—but had never fully explored what she wanted for herself. Driven by a sense of calling, she embarked on a personal journey to find meaning and fulfillment.

She discovered a deeper sense of purpose in her community, where she often served as an informal advocate and translator for fellow immigrants struggling to navigate the complexities of American systems. Recognizing the potential to help others on a larger scale, she decided to pursue a master’s degree in Social Work at the age of 52—a decision she made despite her initial fears about returning to school later in life. “Could I adapt to rigorous academic demands, overcome language barriers, and succeed in a new field? But deep within, I knew I was ready to embrace the challenge.” said Joy-Hee.

The Transformative Power of Education
Before committing to the program, Joy-Hee enrolled in two non-matriculated courses at Stony Brook University. These classes, focused on social issues and healthcare, opened her eyes to broader societal challenges and inspired her to continue her studies. Despite her language barriers and cultural differences, she excelled academically and earned the admiration of her peers.

Bridging Gaps and Building Connections
Joy-Hee’s first role after graduation was in community services, where she provided concrete support to individuals in need, including assistance with public assistance and welfare applications. Visiting clients in their homes, she listened to their stories with empathy and realized the profound impact of simply being present for others.

This experience led her to focus on counseling, particularly within the Korean American community. At the Korean American Family Service Center, Joy-Hee supported survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, guiding them through complex legal and immigration processes. Her work extended beyond advocacy, “Having experienced my own struggles as a first-generation immigrant, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunities and blessings in my life. Helping others was not just a profession but a way of honoring the blessings I had received,” explained Joy-Hee. She felt compelled to use her skills to uplift others, particularly those who faced significant barriers.

A Calling Realized: Becoming a Therapist
Determined to expand her expertise, Joy-Hee obtained her clinical social work license (LCSW), a process that required intensive study and perseverance. Despite challenges, she successfully navigated the rigorous requirements, further solidifying her commitment to her profession.

In 2019, Joy-Hee opened a private practice, but her plans were disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Relocating to North Carolina to be near her son, a psychiatrist at a veterans’ hospital, she continued her work remotely, serving as a clinical supervisor for a mental health clinic within the Korean community. During this time, she discovered the SWEET Institute – She said:

“SWEET has transformed my practice. Its comprehensive trainings have provided the practical tools and theoretical foundations I needed to succeed as a therapist. Today, my work is a blend of evidence-based practice, cultural sensitivity, and personal connection. My approach is deeply informed by what I learned at the SWEET Institute, where I discovered methods, protocols, and frameworks that I have adapted to meet my clients’ needs. Together, we work on building self-esteem, finding clarity, and fostering confidence. Every session is a reminder of why I chose this path—a path that aligns with my values and brings immense joy and fulfillment.”

A Life of Purpose and Service
As Joy-Hee reflects on her journey, she sees how every challenge, every moment of doubt, and every act of perseverance led her to this point. Her story is one of transformation, guided by the belief that life’s greatest purpose lies in serving others.

In the words of Abraham Maslow, self-actualization is the pinnacle of human fulfillment. For Joy-Hee, this fulfillment comes not from personal accolades but from empowering others to overcome their struggles and achieve their potential. “To anyone searching for their calling, I offer this: trust in your journey, embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, and find joy in giving back.”

Conclusion
Today, Joy-Hee Lee is a testament to resilience, lifelong learning, and the transformative power of service. Her journey—from a devoted mother and community advocate to a licensed clinical social worker and successful therapist—reflects her unwavering belief in the value of helping others. For Joy-Hee, her work is more than a profession; it is a calling, one that brings her immense joy and fulfillment. Through her efforts, she continues to inspire others to overcome challenges, embrace their potential, and find meaning in their own lives.

Joy-Hee Lee is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker from New York, with an MSW degree from Stony Brook University. She currently provides psychotherapy at her private practice, Joyful Hearts Therapy, in Bayside, New York. Previously, she worked as a Clinical Supervisor at the KCS Mental Health Clinic, as the Director of Clinical Services at the Korean American Family Service Center,  and community service worker at the Department of Social Services in Suffolk County. In her personal life, Joy-Hee is a skilled and experienced singer and piano player, both of which she has been doing since childhood.  She currently regularly performs with her Church Choir and a Community Women’s Choir.