Joy grew up in the rural “Thumb” area of Michigan. After earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Horticulture from Michigan State University, she moved to Virginia, where her lifelong love of horses truly began to flourish. Although fascinated with horses since childhood, Joy didn’t welcome her first horse and teacher, Bailey, into her life until the age of 25. She learned to ride in the hunter style and competed on the local Virginia Beach circuit.
Her second horse, Ava, became the one who changed her perspective and ultimately led her to the Masterson Method®. At age 20, after relocating to a new barn, Ava developed severe separation anxiety. Rather than continuing along the traditional “dominance” path, Joy chose to listen to Ava’s stress signals. This experience opened her eyes to the subtle cues and communication horses so generously share with their human companions.
Seeking greater attunement with Ava, Joy discovered the Masterson Method of equine bodywork. The techniques not only helped Ava release tension and become more relaxed but also deepened the connection between them. Inspired by these results, Joy pursued both the two-day and five-day Masterson Method courses and knew this was something she wanted to share with other horses and their partners. She has since seen the effectiveness of the work across all equines—including mules and mini donkeys, her personal favorites.
Joy believes in the vital link between a horse’s mental and physical well-being. By helping horses release tension in a calm state, their bodies function more efficiently and in balance, allowing them to become the best version of themselves. It’s a win-win for both horse and human.
She is deeply grateful to her husband, Rick, for his unwavering support throughout her certification journey. Today, Joy lives in Virginia Beach, VA with Rick and their golden retriever, Mollie. She shares her days with three equine partners—Ava, Whisper, and Montana—and is proud to be one of the few to offer Masterson Method sessions in the Virginia Beach area. She is also occasionally available for sessions in Cape Coral/Fort Myers, Florida, and College Station, Texas.