

My career began in 1997 as an AmeriCorps member working in harm reduction during the peak of new HIV infections. Since then, I've held many roles as a proud social worker. I have been a therapist for 18 years, with extensive training & experience in harm reduction therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD. I have lived experience with mental health challenges and treatment
I have worked and lived in:
Life's challenges—whether anxiety, trauma, relationship struggles, or questions of meaning and identity—can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to navigate them alone.
Whether you're facing a specific challenge or seeking deeper personal understanding, I'm here to walk alongside you with warmth, respect, compassion honesty and hope.
You deserve support that honors your whole self—your story, your values, and your potential. Ready to take the first step? I invite you to reach out and begin your journey toward greater well-being and authenticity.
As a licensed counselor with a PhD in Counseling and Counselor Supervision, I bring both over 25 years’ experience, expertise and genuine compassion to my work with adults, couples, families, and older adults.
I have published and presented locally, regionally, nationally and internationally on various counseling areas and since I also teach I am current on research in the field of mental health counseling.
I specialize in supporting individuals through anxiety, depression, trauma, adjustment disorders, relationship concerns, existential questions, and the unique experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals and those exploring alternative lifestyles of any Kind.
Dr. Joe McSpillman
Recognizing when you're overwhelmed isn’t weakness—it’s wisdom. Whether you’re stuck in familiar painful patterns or navigating a new life transition, I’m here to help guide you. Since 2011, I’ve supported diverse clients across inpatient, outpatient, substance use, and crisis settings. I offer contemplative, trauma-informed care for LGBTQ+ adults, veterans, artists & creatives, and high-performing professionals, and I help people of all backgrounds deepen self-understanding and work through questions of identity, meaning, and purpose.
I have lived in Hawaii for 12 years now and am originally from New York State. My dad lived on Kauai my whole life so my connections and roots are here. In my personal time, I love to take care of animals, eat healthy, and enjoy the island. I believe that mental health is a whole body and system approach. I have worked with children and adolescents my entire career. My presence has been strong in the school system so I know how to navigate that culture and those rules as well.
Never thought I'd be a psychologist, but here I am and I love it. I've worked in the music industry, with animals, at coffee shops and yes, Chuck E. Cheese. I have returned to my hometown in Hawaii and embrace the laid back lifestyle after years in the Los Angeles concrete jungle. Ask me anything!
(FYI~ I do not accept EAPs at this time.)


Headway makes it easy to find support for your mental health — from finding the right provider, to understanding costs, to scheduling with ease.