Joseph Kirkpatrick, PhD, LPC

08/02/2026

It’s still one day at a time day after day year after year. I certainly am a grateful recovering alcoholic for the fellowship of the program and the willingness to follow the instructions on how to stay sober.

08/02/2026

I thought it might be helpful for me to post just some information about what I consider the benefits, and even the superpowers of people with dyslexia. Please feel free to share this and spread the word!

07/24/2026

07/23/2026

Lately, I've found myself paying much more attention to moments of awe.

Sometimes it's standing on a mountain overlook. Sometimes it's watching a sunrise, walking through a forest, or simply noticing the incredible beauty and complexity of nature.

As a therapist, those moments made me curious.

I began asking myself, Is awe simply a pleasant emotion, or can it actually help us heal?

That question led me into the scientific research, and what I found was both fascinating and hopeful. A growing body of research suggests that experiences of awe may help reduce stress, improve emotional well-being, strengthen our sense of connection with others, and even make us more resilient.

What I find especially encouraging is that awe doesn't have to be accidental.

It can often be cultivated by slowing down, becoming more present, spending time in nature, appreciating beauty, listening to inspiring music, or simply allowing ourselves to notice the extraordinary in ordinary moments.

As someone who has spent a lifetime helping people heal from trauma, addiction, anxiety, and relationship struggles, I'm always interested in simple, evidence-based practices that people can use to improve their emotional health. Awe is becoming one of those practices that I believe deserves much more attention.

If you'd like to explore this topic further, I've enjoyed the work of psychologist Dr. Jonah Paquette, whose book Awestruck offers an engaging introduction to the science of wonder.

Now I'm curious about you.

When was the last time you experienced awe?

What happened...and how did it affect you?

I'd love to hear your story.

07/23/2026

"Oops! Please see my updated post below. Thanks! 😊

07/22/2026

This is a topic but the last few years I’ve become very interested in learning about and now sharing with you.

Living with an empty nest and estrangement? Work through the grief, reduce painful reactions, and prepare for healthier reconnection over time.

07/20/2026

Happy Monday everybody.

Let me thank you in advance for taking a few minutes to read this post.

you’re interest may help a person trapped in the throws of addiction receive the help they need and hopefully break the grip of substance abuse.

As an example, many people who experience a family intervention end up having a successful  life in recovery.

 My private practice continues to offer AFFORDABLE FAMILY SYSTEMS BASED INTERVENTIONS FOR ADDICTION AND/OR MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES.

You can learn more about all my services, including the intervention services mentioned above if you go to my business website.

doctorjfk.com

Again, thank you in advance for taking your time to read about my services.

Joseph Kirkpatrick, PhD, LPC

Addiction and trauma recovery in Atlanta with expert therapy for substance use, PTSD, and emotional pain. Begin healing today with local support.

07/03/2026

Learn how divorce impacts children emotionally and developmentally, and how therapy—especially Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)—can help them process the changes, reduce anxiety, and strengthen the parent-child relationship.