About Me

I earned my Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Sam Houston State University in 2012 and began practicing therapy full-time in 2013. For eight years, I worked as a therapist in the Texas prison system, primarily counseling men navigating serious personal and emotional challenges. I saw everything from severe psychosis to self-circumcision—and just about everything in between. That experience shaped my ability to sit calmly and compassionately with people in their darkest moments.

In 2021, I launched Joel Looney Counseling to continue this work in a more flexible and personal setting, focusing especially on helping men who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected. My passion is helping men confront what’s holding them back—whether it’s anxiety, addiction, shame, or a sense of aimlessness—and walk with greater honesty, strength, and purpose. I'm drawn to the deep work of facing fear, telling the truth, and stepping into the life you were made for.

It’s a little ironic—and maybe even fitting—that my last name is Looney and I work in mental health. But as it turns out, I come by it honestly. I’m a third-generation Looney in the field: my grandfather was a psychologist, my father is a psychiatrist, and here I am, doing my part to keep the name respectable. Somehow, it just works.

In addition to my clinical work, I serve as a Teaching Pastor at a local non-denominational church, where I’ve been part of the community for over 20 years. My pastoral background includes a certificate in Biblical Studies from Youth With a Mission (YWAM) and a Church Planting Residency through Vineyard Institute.

I believe real change happens when we face truth head-on, guided by courage and grace. If you're ready to do the work, I'm ready to walk with you.