LICSW, 5 years of experience
New to Grow
I'm JoAnna M. Howard a licensed independent clinical social worker and therapist, wife and mother dedicated to helping clients create meaningful change through compassion, clarity, and practical tools. My approach is direct with practical perspective and compassion to help you you uncover patterns, build confidence, and move toward the life you want. I believe in meeting clients where they are with empathy, honesty and a focus on small shifts that lead to big transformation.
In our first session, you can expect a relaxed and judgment - free space where we'll focus on getting to know each other and setting the tone for our work together. I'll ask questions to better understand your story, what brings you to therapy, and what goals you hope to achieve, Together we'll begin building a strong foundation of trust and collaboration so we can create a plan that aligns with the work you're ready to do.
What makes me unique is the combination of my professional expertise and the depth of my personal journey. I've experienced many different seasons of life and have completely transformed my own, which allows me to connect with clients from a place of empathy, authenticity, and hope. My background in crisis intevention and years of medical social work have sharpened my ability to stay calm under pressure, ask the right questions, and guide others through difficult transitions. I'm also a naturally creative thinker and a great person to bounce ideas off of - helping clients see new perspectives, find practical solutions, and make meaningful shifts toward the life they want.
My ideal client is someone who views therapy as intentional time set aside just for them. My ideal client uses their therapeutic time as a space to reflect, reset, and grow. They come to sessions prepared to share whether it's with a notebook or notes app and ready to explore the thoughts and experiences that matter to them the most. Most importantly, a client who is ready to do the work it takes to create real and lasting change.
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients identify and challenge negative thought patterns that influence their emotions and behaviors. Together, we work to replace unhelpful beliefs with more balanced and realistic perspectives through guided self - reflection and skill - building exercises. I also incorporate practical tools like journaling, reframing and behavioral activation to empower clients to apply CBT in their daily life for lasting change.
Through motivational interviewing, I help clients explore their motivations for change in a collaborative and compassionate way. By using open - ended questions, affirmations, and reflective listening, we uncover their values and strengthen confidence in their ability to act. This approach empowers clients to create lasting change driven by their own internal motivation.