Joel Davidson, M.A., L.P.C., N.C.C., is a nationally certified and licensed professional counselor who has worked as a high school counselor for the past 15 years at The Leffell School (formerly known as Solomon Schechter School of Westchester) in Hartsdale, New York. With almost 30 years of experience as an educator in both middle and high schools, Joel has worked with a wide range of students who experienced issues with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, bullying, ADHD, learning disorders, and Autism. As a school counselor, Joel has been an advocate for students in the classroom based on their needs. Joel uses Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, mindfulness and supportive therapy.
Joel has a specific interest in supporting members of the LGBTQ+ community and their families. He was the faculty advisor for the Rainbow Alliance (LGBTQ+ support group) in both the middle and high schools and has helped students who have come out as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, gender non-conforming and gender fluid. Working with families, teachers and administrators, Joel has helped the school become a welcoming and inclusive safe space for LGBTQ+ students. Joel also sat on the advisory board of a communal group (Mosaic of Westchester) that advocates and supports the LGBTQ+ Jewish community.
Joel is a graduate of the University of Michigan, concentrating in political science and history. He earned post-bachelor teaching endorsements in political science, social studies and English education. He received his masters in counseling from Oakland University and is a licensed professional counselor in Michigan and permanently certified as a school counselor in New York.