Hello and welcome to my blog! I’m excited to introduce myself and share a little about who I am, the work I do, and my mission to create meaningful change for Deaf individuals, Codas, and the broader community.
My name is Joy Plote, and I am a licensed counselor, trauma specialist, and a proud Coda (Child of Deaf Adults). My work centers on advocating for greater awareness, understanding, and improved access for Deaf individuals and Codas, while also providing the healing tools necessary for personal and intergenerational trauma recovery.
A Unique Perspective and Drive for Change
As a Coda, I’ve experienced the challenges of living in the space between two worlds. This experience has shaped my deep commitment to ensuring that Codas, often an overlooked and unique minority, are recognized for the distinct challenges and strengths they bring to the table. One of my central goals is to address the gaps in mental health services and access for Codas and their families, who often face identity struggles, emotional isolation, and the effects of intergenerational trauma.
In my work, I strive to bring visibility to the unique experiences Codas share and advocate for systemic changes that provide universal access to mental health services and education. This includes a focus on the use of American Sign Language (ASL) as a bridge for communication and understanding, not just for Deaf individuals, but for Codas and their hearing families as well. My vision includes improving access to resources through universal ASL, ensuring that every Coda, Deaf individual, and hearing person has the tools they need to thrive.
Advocacy and Empowerment
Beyond individual healing, I am passionate about advocating for broad changes that can improve access for Codas, Deaf, and Hearing individuals. I work alongside various communities and organizations to push for the recognition of Codas as a unique group with specific needs, and attributes that hold the key to systemic change. I believe in empowering Codas to tell their stories that will advocate for all of us. Through initiatives like the Coda Legacy Project, the Space Between, and the Coda Counselor, I hope to inspire and encourage Codas to embrace their unique identities, gain support, and build connections with others who understand their experiences.
A key part of my advocacy is working to increase access to resources for Codas through initiatives that promote the use of ASL as a universal language across family and professional settings. By improving access to ASL education, we can help break down barriers and open up pathways to better mental health care, academic success, and emotional well-being for Codas, Deaf individuals, and their families.
How We Are Going to Do That
To achieve these goals, I have a clear plan of action that includes several key initiatives:
- Education and Awareness Campaigns: Through workshops, webinars, and educational materials, I aim to raise awareness about the unique challenges Codas face and the need for accessible mental health services for Deaf individuals and their families. By educating professionals, interpreters, and communities, we can create a more inclusive and understanding environment.
- Collaborative Advocacy: I believe in the power of collaboration. By partnering with Deaf organizations, mental health professionals, interpreters, and educational institutions, we can work together to push for policy changes that recognize the overlooked unique needs of Codas and their Deaf families. This includes advocating for the integration of ASL into mainstream mental health and educational settings.
- Universal ASL Access: One of my primary goals is to improve access to American Sign Language as a tool for communication between Codas, their Deaf parents, and the wider community. By promoting universal ASL education and awareness, we can ensure that Codas are able to communicate effectively and that their mental health needs are understood and supported.
- The Coda Legacy Project: This initiative focuses on empowering Codas to share their stories, connect with each other, and receive the support they need. Through storytelling, research, and mentorship programs, we will build a community where Codas can thrive and take pride in their identities.
- Mental Health and Trauma Support: Using evidence-based practices, I will continue to provide trauma-informed care tailored to the Deaf community and Codas. My practice is built on offering accessible mental health services, with a focus on healing the intergenerational trauma that often affects Deaf families.
What You’ll Find Here
Through this space, I aim to share insights into trauma recovery, mental health, and the Deaf/Coda experience, while advocating for more equitable access to mental health services. You’ll find resources, educational materials, and discussions on how we can collectively support Deaf individuals and their families, and push for greater recognition of our community’s unique needs.
Whether you’re a Coda, a Deaf individual, an interpreter, a professional, or simply someone wanting to learn more about the Deaf world and mental health, I invite you to join me on this journey. Together, we can drive the changes needed to ensure that all voices, Deaf or hearing, are heard and valued.
Thank you for visiting, and I look forward to growing this community with you!
Coda Hugs,
Joy
Coda Counselor
the Coda Counselor 
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