Hello and welcome to the Space Between! 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’m a licensed counselor and a proud Coda (Child of Deaf Adults). My life’s work revolves around bridging the gaps between hearing and Deaf communities through education, advocacy, interpreting, and now, healing. I specialize in trauma, abuse, and deprivation and have a unique focus on the Deaf and Coda experiences, which are sadly underrepresented in mental health spaces.
I bring over three decades of experience as an interpreter, interpreter educator, and a mental health practitioner. My expertise includes using evidence-based therapies like EMDR, Brainspotting, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to help individuals heal from trauma, particularly those in the Deaf community or Codas navigating complex intergenerational dynamics.
What Drives My Work
As a Coda, I’ve personally experienced the challenges that come with living in the space between two worlds. This has fueled my dedication to providing accessible, inclusive mental health services to Deaf individuals, their families, and the professionals who support them. In addition to counseling, I offer educational workshops, coaching, and consulting services— using American Sign Language (ASL) and English with other accessible formats.
I also focus on bringing awareness to the unique struggles Codas face, such as identity confusion, emotional isolation, intergenerational trauma, and our own Deaf legacy burdens. Through initiatives like the Coda Legacy Project, work to empower Codas to tell their stories, connect with each other, and advocate for the support they need.
What You’ll Find Here
On this blog, I’ll be sharing insights on trauma recovery, mental health strategies, and ways to foster connection between Deaf and hearing individuals. Whether you’re a Coda, an interpreter, a mental health professional, or simply interested in learning more about Deaf culture and mental health, this is the space between where you can grow, learn, and find support.
I’m here to spark dialogue, provide valuable resources, and offer practical tools to help you on this journey—whether that’s healing from trauma, improving your mental health, or learning more about the Deaf/Coda experience.
Thank you for being here, and I look forward to sharing this journey with you!
Warmly,
Joy
that Coda Counselor
the Coda Counselor 
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