Joy Wright Dendy
Joy Wright Dendy, born on an Indian reservation near Taos, New Mexico, is the fifth child of missionary parents who served the Navajo and Tewa Indian Nations. From an early age, Joy displayed a passion for the arts, beginning to sing at just four years old and participating in theatre during high school—a pursuit she continues to this day. Her love for music led her to serve as a worship leader and choir director at her church for the past fifteen years, blending her talents with her dedication to faith and community. Joy dedicated twenty-four years to education, serving as a teacher, school counselor, and administrative assistant. Her commitment to helping others extended into Christian counseling, where she has spent the last ten years guiding women, children, and couples through life’s challenges. She combines her professional experience with her faith, bringing empathy, insight, and encouragement with everyone she works. A published author, Joy launched her book You Did What, When? in January 2025, which is also available on ebook and Audible. Married for three years, she is a proud mother of eight children and grandmother of thirteen. Residing in California, Joy enjoys walking, puzzles, writing, singing, and playing the piano, all while cherishing time with her large, loving family.
• Pupil Personnel Credential
• California State University, Bakersfield Bachelor of Arts
• Salutatorian, class of 1974 East Bakersfield High School
• American Association of Christian Counselors
• Worship Leader
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the guidance and blessings of the Lord Jesus Christ, as well as the unwavering support of my family and my husband.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to allow people to go at their own pace in order to heal, grow, and change.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
The advice I would give to young women entering my industry is to be prepared and understand that it can take 2–5 years to build your practice. Stay ethical, remain focused, and never give up. I would also encourage young women today to get their education when they have few responsibilites.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge and opportunity in my field right now is understanding what people truly need—and recognizing that real growth and change only happen when they themselves see and embrace it. This process requires a great deal of patience.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are honesty, truth, and maintaining focus on the client—ensuring that I prioritize their needs without bringing my personal issues into counseling.
Locations
Kingdom Community Ministries
Bakersfield, CA