Degolia Johnson (LMSW, Owner)
I was 50 years old when I went back to school, and I have been practicing for 21 years. It has been one amazing journey, and even though I think I have heard and seen it all, something else is always said or done that I have not heard or seen. I sincerely do believe that there is ALWAYS A WAY, hence the name of the agency. If I don't have an answer I work on finding an answer and generally there is ALWAYS an answer in some way, shape or form. My style is direct; I do not believe in beating around the bush - I prefer directness with kindness.
I believe in doing what I call a "Meet & Greet". It is important that you, as the client, feel a connection with your counselor. We do not ALWAYS have to agree, but a connection needs to be there. I ask a lot of questions; the better I know you, the better I can serve you. I do not get offended, because if I did, I believe that I should not be providing this kind of service. I give homework if you would like to have it, and last but not least, I will not tell you what to do; I prefer not to be told what to do.
I find joy in my work, and I love what I do. I am addicted to TV, yup, I do have an addiction, so I completely understand addiction. I have also walked the journey with my oldest son. The journey was 18 years long, and that is how I learned about addiction. I am one of the few who was able to get him through it successfully. Not everyone does. I can understand what someone is going through even if I have not experienced it personally. Some call that a gift, I look at it with gratitude that I can do that
It is very important that my clients know that I support the individual’s choice. I will always try to guide and direct, but the bottom line is what they think is best for them; this is how they learn and grow. I have no problem going the extra mile, but I am very good at setting boundaries to maintain an appropriate professional relationship in such a way that the client feels supported and cared for. I am always looking for ways to increase my knowledge and improve or hone my therapeutic skills. I love to learn new and different things that will help clients in their endeavors of a better independent life. I can also be very creative in trying to make things work. I can work with all individuals, it matters not their race, creed, or color, religious beliefs, or what they have done in the past that has impacted their future, i.e., sex offenders. It does not matter their lifestyle or sexual preference.
I hope ya'll have a great and glorious day!
Education:
Bachelor and Master's in Social Work
Specialties:
-CBT, Mindfulness. Talk Therapy, Spirituality, Parenting, Seniors, Grief & Loss, Ages over 20, list goes on...
Fun Facts:
I love animals, all kinds of animals, except spiders and cockroaches (yuck). I love art, but cannot draw; I love to color. Reading is a passion as long as I can stay awake. I love arts and crafts and cooking when I have the energy. I love to laugh and have fun, life is hard and the more joy and laughter you have makes it easier. I love the outdoors and exploring places I have never been. The only football I watch is the Boise State Broncos because I graduated from Boise State University. If I get anxious about the game, I can't watch, but will check the score on my phone.