Joseph Hakim , LMHC

Joseph Hakim is a licensed mental health counselor based in Hawaii with six years of professional experience in the counseling field. He holds a master's degree in clinical mental health from Hawaii Pacific University and is a nationally board certified counselor, a recognition that reflects national standards for counseling practice. He also holds a certificate in substance abuse counseling, which supports his work with clients facing addiction and related concerns.

As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), Joseph draws from a range of therapeutic methods and tailors interventions to the individual needs of each client. He frequently uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help people identify and change unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns, while also integrating client-centered principles that emphasize empathy, respect, and the client’s own goals. Motivational Interviewing is another approach he applies when addressing ambivalence about change, particularly with substance use and behavior change goals.

Joseph’s areas of focus include stress and anxiety, addictions, trauma and abuse, grief and depression, LGBT concerns, relationship and family issues, eating and sleeping problems, anger, bipolar disorder, and coping with life changes. He also works with difficulties such as abandonment, body image, caregiver stress, communication problems, hoarding, isolation, men’s issues, midlife challenges, panic disorder, personality disorders, and phobias. His practice emphasizes selecting techniques that meet each person’s unique situation and supporting clients in addressing underlying issues that interfere with living a fuller life.

Approaches Joseph Hakim Uses for Online Care

Joseph Hakim commonly uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and client-centered therapy in online work. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy focuses on identifying and shifting unhelpful thoughts and behaviors, which can be useful for anxiety, depression, panic, and many everyday stressors. Client-centered therapy emphasizes empathy, active listening, and supporting the client’s own goals, creating space for people to explore feelings, relationships, and life transitions.

He also draws on Motivational Interviewing when clients face mixed feelings about change. This collaborative approach helps people clarify their motivations and strengthen commitment to change, which can be especially helpful with substance use or lifestyle adjustments.

Finding the right method is part of the therapeutic process. Joseph approaches treatment collaboratively, working with each client to determine which combination of techniques fits their needs, goals, and preferences. He adjusts strategies over time based on what is working for the client.

Online sessions via video, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging offer flexibility and easier access to care across different time zones and schedules. These options allow clients to connect in ways that fit their routines and life demands while receiving support from licensed professionals and therapists experienced in a range of concerns.