Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Nicole Johnson. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Nicole thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We’d love to hear the backstory of how you established your own practice.

I started my first private practice in Atlanta, Georgia, in 2008 with the desire to incorporate expressive arts and non-traditional therapeutic interventions when working with families, young adults, children, and adolescents. Starting a private practice was challenging. It involved identifying a strong supportive team and collaborating strategically with those practicing in the area for some time. It was thrilling but also very stressful as I embarked on putting a comprehensive business plan into place. It was challenging to locate clients without insurance paneling, and I found that getting agency contracts was ideal (EAP programs, etc.).

After relocating to North Carolina in 2018 and working with a wonderful group practice, I decided to pursue my private practice goals once again under a different name, Mindful Counseling Services, PLLC. I have used lessons learned from my first experience to navigate the current clinical landscape. I encourage new professionals to get coaching or consulting before beginning their practice, credentialing with insurance panels, and securing agency contracts. Focusing on a specific population is also a great idea. Preparing yourself, diversifying your financial resources/income, and focusing on a niche will make you more profitable and allow you to flourish in ways that align with your values and passion.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers

I am Dr. Nicole Johnson, LCSW. I am a motivated licensed clinical social worker with comprehensive accomplishments leading mental health counseling, non-profit program management, community partnership development, and cross-functional teams to ensure success and achieve goals. I have implemented impactful tactics through analysis of details to gain an understanding of emerging mental health issues, trends, and relationships. I am a highly organized, creative clinical therapist and private clinical practice owner who excels at supporting those managing difficult life transitions.

I am the owner of Mindful Counseling Services (MCS). MCS is a clinical-private practice offering clinical psychotherapy to individuals and groups, mental health supervision, consultation, clinical training, and intensives to individuals, groups, and agencies.

If you could go back, would you choose the same profession, specialty, etc.?

If I could go back, I would have identified a specialty long ago versus being a generalist. This may have ensured that I aligned my professional goals with my values and passion. It would have also reduced burn-out.

Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?

Consultation is essential when starting and maintaining your clinical practice. Many of us think we know it all (the following may be a shock to a few), but the reality is that none of us do. Learning occurs at all levels of our professional lives. It only enhances our worth and understanding of self and client when we prioritize the importance of being a consummate learner. I highly encourage learning outside of the requirements of any licensing board. The more competent you are as a therapist, the more you increase your chances of successful therapeutic experiences.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.mindfulcounselingservices-nc.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindfulcounselingservicesnc
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MCServicesPLLC/

Image Credits
Amber Gluckin -photographer