In this issue dedicated to men’s mental health, Palo Magazine speaks with Joey Miranda, a bilingual therapist, community leader, and tireless advocate for men’s emotional well-being. With deep roots in Reading, PA, Joey has dedicated his life to creating safe spaces where men can heal, express themselves, and reconnect with their purpose. His journey combines empathy, faith, and service, both within and outside his community.
PM: Joey, let’s start from the beginning. Can you tell us a bit about your roots and how Reading, PA, became home for you?
JP: I was born on October 16th, 1971, in Worcester, Massachusetts to Carmen L. Miranda and Jose Miranda. My family moved to Reading in 1975 when I was just a few years old, and we’ve been here ever since. I grew up on 13th Street—literally walked that stretch my whole school life, from 13th and Green Elementary to Northeast Jr. High, then graduated from Reading High in 1990. Later, I went on to earn a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice and a Master’s in Applied Psychology from Albright College. Reading is more than a place I live—it’s my community, my foundation. That’s why I’ve committed my life to serving the people here.
PM: You’ve taken on several roles in mental health. What inspired you to become a bilingual mental health therapist?
JP: It really came down to wanting to be a resource for people who are often underserved—especially bilingual individuals and men. Being bilingual has allowed me to build deeper connections and reach men across all backgrounds. I noticed that many men come to therapy just wanting to be heard—without judgment. Society doesn’t always give men the tools or space to talk about pain, and that’s where I step in. I create that safe space where men can open up, be vulnerable, and truly feel validated. That kind of transparency is essential for healing.
PM: What have you found to be the biggest barriers for men when it comes to seeking therapy?
JP: Fear, honestly. Fear of rejection, of not being taken seriously, of being seen as weak. Men are often taught to “man up,” and that gets internalized. But therapy is about breaking those walls down. I meet them where they are. I emphasize transparency, vulnerability, and intentionality. When they realize they can be themselves without judgment, real progress starts to happen.
PM: Outside of therapy, you’re also heavily involved in community leadership. Can you share more about your work with local organizations?
JP: Absolutely. I believe leadership means service. I currently serve as President of The Foundation for the Reading Pagoda, and I’m a Board Member of the Reading Education Foundation and the Northeast Alumni Association. I also lead The Forge, which is a motivational speaker series. Each of these roles is about investing in people—especially our youth—and preserving what makes Reading special.
PM: You’ve also done spiritual coaching and international humanitarian work. What drives that part of your journey?
JP: My faith and my belief in purpose. From 2016 to 2018, I served as a Spiritual Coach at Glad Tidings Assemblies of God Church and led men’s groups like Men of Iron and Every Man A Warrior. It was about helping men grow spiritually and lead with integrity. I also participated in leadership development programs like GT in 60 and Lead U, which equip people to serve better in their communities.
On the international side, I’ve been part of building safe shelters for women and children rescued from sex trafficking in Costa Rica through the RAHAB Foundation. In Nairobi, Kenya, I worked with Somali and Muslim refugees, teaching English and building relationships. Those were deeply humbling experiences that reminded me how connected we all are, no matter where we come from.
PM: Looking at your journey so far, what are you most proud of?
JP: It’s hard to pick one thing, but I’d say I’m most proud of the impact I’ve made by simply showing up and serving. Whether it’s in a therapy session, a board meeting, or halfway around the world, I lead with heart. My goal has always been to uplift others—to help them find their purpose, their healing, and their voice.
Joey Miranda’s story reminds us that true leadership is born of service and authenticity. In a world where men have been taught to remain silent about their pain, his voice offers a powerful invitation: Healing is also an act of courage. Whether in an office, a community room, or in distant lands, Joey continues to spread hope, one conversation at a time.
Rosa J. Parra
Founder and Editor
Palo Magazine
