Dr. Joyce Morley-Ball has carved out a unique professional niche for her business in Atlanta. Trained as a psychotherapist, Dr. Joyce still sees patients in private practice. But she's also an author, talk-show host, and relationship expert. Dr. Joyce loved working with patients on a one-on-one level, but says she became a freelancer after she realized she could make a much bigger difference pursuing different types of projects. Dr. Joyce has her own website, and a listing in the Freelancers Yellow Pages. You can learn more about her in our Q&A with her below. And remember, if you have a profile in the Freelancers Yellow pages and you'd like to be featured as a member of the week, you can always email us us to let us know! What has been your most exciting project? Working with people is always my most interesting project. This work includes executive coaching, psychotherapy, motivational speaking and serving as a radio talk show host. I am literally on a high when I help others to understand themselves as well as their life directions. It is always interesting for me to see people grow from one point in their lives to an even greater point, giving them permission to challenge and change their beliefs, attitudes, behaviors and overall worldview. As a result of the growth and the changes, effective communication becomes the norm rather than the exception and lives are positively affected. Why did you decide to go freelance? I decided to go freelance after sustaining what was considered to be a permanent neck and back injury while serving as a Dean of Students in an inner city high school. However, after Divine intervention and finally listening to the voice, it was revealed to me that I was being hindered and hampered from utilizing my skills to effectively make a difference in the lives of others as I was directed to do. I came to recognize that I had more power and authority to reach the masses as a freelancer than I would have if I remained in a system that was self-serving and not necessarily people-serving. In essence, I believe that I was directed to become a freelancer rather than choosing to become a freelancer. ** What tip would you give to a new freelancer or someone who is considering going freelance?** The new freelancer must do his/her homework by researching the area of work to be performed or the service to be provided, ensuring that not only is there a need, but also that he/she can make a difference in the field as a freelancer. He/she must also prepare to be responsible for generating his/her income, become aware and prepared for the ups and downs, inconsistencies and uncertainties that can be associated with being a freelancer, as well as the competition. The new freelancer must be a risk taker, flexible, motivated, driven, patient, determined and optimistic. The freelancer can’t be a quitter and he/she must accept that ‘there is nothing to a failure but a try.’ For every failure, there are lessons to be learned. They have to be prepared to get back up and try again! What is your favorite spot in the city in which you live? My favorite spot in the Atlanta area is Centennial Park. It is a spot that is open and free, uninhibited and beautiful. I like to walk through the park and observe the people as they pass through. It also gives me time to spend with myself and if I choose to, I can also spend time with others and engage in various types of entertainment. ** What is your inspiration?** My children, my family and God are my inspirations. When I look at them I am inspired to continue the fight for others and never cease working to empower women, men and families. My relationship with God is always an inspiration for me to remember my purpose and to continue to walk by faith and not by sight. This inspiration allows me to always count my blessings, no matter how small and to see the glass as half full instead of half empty.