My name is Ajani Johnson, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Georgia. I have over 10 years experience in addiction services, community mental health, crisis intervention and stabilization services. My areas of specific practice are providing individual and group therapy services to adults, couples, and families.I provide a comfortable atmosphere for you to express yourself, unburden, and examine those things that may hinder you from moving forward in your personal or professional life.
In the first session with me, clients can generally expect the following: Introduction and Rapport Building: I will begin by introducing myself, explaining my background and approach to counseling, and creating a welcoming environment to help clients feel comfortable. Confidentiality and Ethical Guidelines: I will outline the importance of confidentiality and discuss the ethical guidelines that govern our work together, ensuring that clients understand their rights and what to expect. Understanding Client's Concerns: Clients will have the opportunity to share their reasons for seeking counseling. I’ll ask about their experiences, feelings, and any specific issues they want to address. Exploring Goals: Together, we can discuss what they hope to achieve through therapy. Establishing clear goals helps guide our sessions and creates a sense of direction. Assessment: I may ask some questions to gather background information, including family dynamics, social support, and mental health history, which helps inform the therapeutic process. Discussion of the Counseling Process: I will explain how the therapeutic process works, including session structure, potential techniques we may use (like CBT), and how we will proceed in future sessions. Questions and Concerns: Clients are encouraged to ask questions or express any concerns they may have. This dialogue helps ensure that they feel heard and understood. Conclusion and Next Steps: The session will typically conclude with a summary of what was discussed, confirming any preliminary goals, and scheduling the next appointment. The first session is an important step in establishing a therapeutic alliance and allowing clients to voice their needs and expectations.
As a provider, some of my greatest strengths include: Cultural Competence: I have a deep understanding of diverse backgrounds, particularly as an African American and LGBTQ+ professional. This allows me to relate to clients' unique experiences and provide culturally sensitive support. Empathy and Compassion: I prioritize creating a safe and supportive environment where clients feel heard and valued. My empathetic approach helps build trust and rapport, essential for effective therapy. Strong Communication Skills: I effectively communicate complex ideas in an accessible way, ensuring clients understand the therapeutic process and feel comfortable discussing their thoughts and emotions. Holistic Approach: I recognize the importance of treating the whole person, taking into account emotional, mental, social, and cultural factors in a client’s life, which supports comprehensive healing and growth. Flexibility and Adaptability: I am skilled at tailoring my therapeutic approaches to meet the specific needs of each client, using techniques that resonate best with their individual experiences and goals. Commitment to Continuous Learning: I stay current with research and best practices in mental health to provide my clients with effective and evidence-based treatments. Empowerment Focus: I strive to empower clients by helping them develop skills, insights, and coping strategies, fostering autonomy and resilience. These strengths contribute to a therapeutic environment that promotes healing, growth, and positive change.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a widely used therapeutic approach that focuses on identifying and altering negative thought patterns and behaviors. It is effective for a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, and stress. In practice, CBT is typically structured and time-limited, making it an efficient approach. It often requires collaboration between therapist and client to ensure that strategies are personalized and relevant to the individual's unique situation.