Zach Johnston, BA
“Journey before Destination.”
This philosophy is at the heart of my therapeutic approach, emphasizing the importance of the process and navigating crossroads unique to each person’s path. Over the past five years, I have been dedicated to helping individuals achieve personal growth through resilience and creativity, understanding that each step along the journey creates the footprints that lead us to our destination.
My therapeutic practice is deeply rooted in person-centered theory, enhanced by Emotionally Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I strive to support clients in their personal epics, focusing on the strides they take and the progress they make along the way. As I near the completion of my master's degree in co-occurring counseling at the University of Saint Thomas, my professional journey has provided me with extensive experience in community mental health, working with diverse clients in both inpatient treatment and guiding groups at a harm reduction-focused substance abuse treatment center. These experiences shape my holistic perspective on care, emphasizing the interconnectedness of mental, physical, social, and spiritual health, and how these intersect to create the landscape of our experiences.
My background in neuroscience and mindfulness provides an important lens through which I understand the complexities of the mind-brain connection. I have witnessed firsthand the ways mindfulness enhances one’s ability to stay present and aware, fostering a greater ability to see the forks in the road that can lead to odysseys of growth.
I am adept at working with clients from diverse backgrounds experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, mania, psychosis, and problematic substance use. I also enjoy working with clients navigating various life transitions, including career changes, family/relationship issues, loss, health concerns, educational challenges, and identity exploration. Together, we can explore your strengths and work towards meaningful and lasting change, valuing each step of your journey. For while the first step starts us on our path, it is always the next step that remains the most important.
