Joe Nord

BACKGROUND

Before becoming a therapist, I spent 18 years in Division I athletics and combat sports — five as a competitive athlete and thirteen as a coach. Nine of those years were spent coaching wrestling at Columbia University in New York City. Over time, my role evolved into broader leadership responsibilities within the program, including serving as Associate Head Coach. These were intensely competitive, high-expectation environments that demanded discipline, resilience, and sustained focus.

Working at that level meant thinking not only about performance, but about culture — how standards are set, how trust is built, and how individuals develop within a team. I saw how ambition and pressure shape identity. I also became aware of how much our confidence, stress, and sense of direction are influenced by the people and relationships around us.

Over time, I grew increasingly interested in how people think, interpret their experiences, and make decisions — especially when expectations are high. My move into therapy developed from that interest.

EDUCATION & TRAINING

I earned a Master of Arts in Psychological Counseling and a Master of Education in Mental Health Counseling from Teachers College, Columbia University. I also hold an MBA from Gardner Web University and a Bachelor of Arts in Applied Economics from the University of Minnesota. My background in economics sharpened my interest in rational decision-making — and in the very human ways we can become irrational when navigating uncertainty, emotion, and high stakes.

I completed advanced training in Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) at the Albert Ellis Institute in New York City. My clinical work integrates REBT/CBT, ACT, and existential therapy, informed by philosophical traditions that emphasize perspective, responsibility, and deliberate choice.

In addition to my education and advanced training, I also completed a year of volunteer work with The Trevor Project, deepening my experience working within the LGBTQ+ community.

Therapy, as I practice it, is not simply about reducing symptoms. It is about developing a clearer relationship to yourself — your values, your relationships, and the direction you want to take. Our work includes both warmth and challenge. At times it is serious; at times it includes humor and perspective.

Outside of clinical work, I enjoy New York City, tough workouts, and staying connected to wrestling — on the mat, as a fan, or volunteering with younger athletes.

I am interested in how you got here, and I want to hear your story.

If you believe this is the kind of work that would be useful for you at this stage, I invite you to reach out.