With more than four decades of experience, Joe Ann Brandt, PhD, has built a distinguished career in psychology. Since 1981, she has served as a clinical psychologist at Savannah Psychological Consultants PC. She has also been the co-owner of Wet Willie’s Inc. since 1990, playing a pivotal role in the company’s growth and success. Her career began with an internship at the University of Alabama from 1978 to 1979, followed by her role as an instructor of psychology at the same institution from 1979 to 1980.
Dr. Brandt has worked with the Georgia State Health Planning Agency and served as a consultant for Victim Witness Assistance and Coastal Behavior Medicine. Additionally, she has lent her skills to various institutions, including St. Joseph’s Hospital, the Vietnam Vets Center, St. Mary’s Home, Bethesda Home for Boys, Memorial Hospital, Charter Hospital Savannah, and Candler General Hospital.
Outside of her primary professional roles, Dr. Brandt is deeply committed to philanthropy, dedicating her time and resources to organizations that support individuals and families in need. She plays a key role in directing extra funds from Wet Willie’s Inc., the Board of Education, and the Georgia Clerks Authority to the 200 Club, which provides financial assistance to the families of fallen military personnel.
Dr. Brandt’s contributions to psychological research have been influential, particularly in family dynamics and neuropsychology. Her studies on predictors of effective family functioning and neuropsychological correlatives of degenerative brain disorders have advanced the field. She has also provided valuable insights into relationship dynamics through her research on the effects of sexual misconceptions on marital happiness and satisfaction.
As an active professional in her field, Dr. Brandt maintains memberships in several organizations, including the Georgia Psychological Association, the Association for Women in Psychology, and the American Psychological Association, and serves as president of Coastal Association Psychologists. Her involvement extends to the American Society of Clinical Hypnosis and historical organizations such as the Savannah Association and Georgia Conservancy. Dr. Brandt also advocates for environmental causes through her memberships in the Citizens for Clean Air Club and the Sierra Club.
Dr. Brandt is proud of her strong educational foundation, including a Bachelor of Arts, cum laude, from the University of Georgia in 1974, a Master of Arts from the University of Arkansas in 1977 and a Doctor of Philosophy from the same institution in 1980. She completed postgraduate studies at the University of Alabama in 1981. Eminently qualified, Dr. Brandt is a licensed clinical psychologist in Georgia and is certified in clinical hypnotherapy by the American Society of Clinical Hypnosis.
Reflecting on her path, Dr. Brandt was deeply influenced by her father, a neurologist and psychiatrist. Mesmerized by his books, she developed an early fascination with topics like war shock and human behavior. Her upbringing in Savannah also played a crucial role in shaping her career, as the connections she built within her community have been instrumental in her journey. Additionally, she values the support she and her family have received from organizations like the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
Dr. Brandt’s greatest career achievements are the profound impacts she has had on others’ lives. She once received a heartfelt letter from a woman she helped decades ago, expressing gratitude for the strength she helped her find to leave an abusive marriage. In court, Dr. Brandt has provided expert assessments, including guidance for a young girl caught between her biological and adoptive parents. Her ability to navigate complex emotional and legal challenges has left a lasting imprint on those she has helped.
Born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Dr. Brandt has been married since 1981. Together with her husband, she has raised two accomplished daughters, one of whom is head of neurology at the Mayo Clinic, and the other who is a physician. Looking ahead, Dr. Brandt remains committed to her work and community, driven by a desire to give back and support those around her. She also looks forward to engaging in philanthropic efforts with the guidance and support of her daughters.
In advising future professionals, Dr. Brandt emphasizes the importance of gratitude. She believes it has the power to change lives by shifting perspectives and fostering appreciation for both the small and significant aspects of life. Helping individuals recognize how their perceptions can either hold them back or set them free is a fundamental part of her work.