Her first movie role was Averil in the comedy "Pretty Smart" (1987), which starred her sister, Tricia. Joely then played Kris in TV's Schoolbreak Special drama "Dedicated to the One I Love" (1991) opposite Danielle Ferland. Next came the feature "I'll Do Anything" (1994) starring Nick Nolte, which helped her career as bigger roles followed. She also had a variety of guest roles on series such as "Growing Pains", "Blossom", "Caroline in the City", "The Golden Palace", "The Outer Limits", "Grace Under Fire" and "Coach".