My Approach to Helping
Hello! I am Karen Johnson, a licensed professional counselor. When you decide it is time to work with a therapist, it can be a frightening, daunting process. However, therapeutic healing comes in the context of a compassionate, non-judgmental, highly empathic relationship. I will provide this for you as we explore your inner world together. You do not need to do it alone.
I give my clients the utmost in compassion, non-judgment, and care. But, because everyone is unique, I draw from many different therapeutic modalities to provide each client with therapy that is as individual as they are. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, attachment-based therapy, Internal Family Systems, trauma-focused, somatic therapy, interpersonal therapy, and solution-focused therapy.
We will work together to identify any barriers to your well-being and develop balanced, attainable goals to promote your healing. You will likely feel heard and seen in a powerful way as you experience insight and personal growth.
My expertise is in helping individuals build and strengthen healthy relationships with self and others. More specifically, I work with women's issues, relational issues, self worth, trauma, depression, and anxiety. I am also skilled and experienced with adolescents and adolescentparent relationships.
I provide a warm, supportive environment infused with humor and compassion. I am able to establish rapport very quickly by providing understanding and unconditional positive regard. Therapy with me is a safe place for you to explore your thoughts and feelings while uncovering powerful personal insights and new ways of seeing things.
As a naturally curious and empathetic person, I have always been drawn to people and their stories. My curiosity is paired with tremendous compassion for the range of difficult experiences that occur living as an imperfect human in an imperfect world.
People need to feel seen and heard, and I noticed at a very young age that friends and family sought me out for this very reason. I find myself asking questions, listening intently, and connecting with people on a daily basis whether they are my clients or not. I simply care about people and I am personally fulfilled by helping them.
As my client, we will establish and monitor your goals together. I will help you understand the root issues and develop practical strategies to target these issues. We will start with small, attainable goals and work toward larger, more impactful goals. The attainment of goals is always approached with patience and non-judgement.
It is common and very understandable that you may be a little anxious to meet and participate in therapy. I honor and validate the anxiety as well as the courage and strength it takes to share your story with me. Once you feel comfortable, we will dive right in to what is on your mind and what has brought you to therapy. Your time is valuable and my goal is that you walk away from the first session feeling encouraged, relieved, and hopeful.