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

Syrenia , appreciate you joining us today. How did you get your first job in the field that you practice in today?

I was a student at the University of Texas at Arlington. As I was preparing for my internship, I was selected to interview at the Dallas VA medical center. Other students had informed me that it was hard to get in at the VA. I was so grateful. My field instructor, Latisha Archie Thomas selected me as her intern that summer. Then, I was fortunate enough to be offered a job upon graduation. I began as a medical social worker than following year, began my clinical supervision, and that was the best experience I had. I already knew I wanted to go into private practice, but my experience under Latisha solidified my dream. It set the foundation for my career!

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 a millennial mental health educator. I am not your typical clinician. I use technology, social media, emojis, memes, and popular culture to communicate and connect with teens and young adults. I can identify with the struggles of millennials and Gen z as both a professional and person trying to make it day to day. I own my own practice known as Psychosocial Solutions. I also sell apparel and accessories related to social work and mental health, online at the Psychosocial Boutique. I am an enthusiastic public speaker, mental health and self-care advocate, community health educator, and author. With a diverse clinical background, I have experience with at-risk youth, forensic populations, Veterans, the aging community, and adults across the age span. I have become a subject matter expert in mental health, social justice, self-care, and community outreach. I have shared my expertise in local communities, churches, youth organizations, colleges, and universities.
Driven by passion and purpose, I have used social media to overcome international barriers to spread awareness and empower others through her work and content. My passion for social work developed from issues that she experienced in adolescence. I found refuge in journaling and helping others, which led to the creation of my first major project, the Safe Space Guided Mental Health Journal, which is available on Amazon. My focus is empowering others to live their best lives. Also, I advocate for minorities and create a safe space for individuals who are stigmatized by mental health, marginalization, and disadvantage.
I am contributing faculty at Walden University. I am independently licensed as a Clinical Social Worker in the states of AL, MS, TN, and TX and is certified as a life coach. I am also a clinical supervisor for master-level social workers in the states of AL, MS and TN. I received my Doctor of Social Work degree at Walden University with a concentration in clinical expertise. I received my Master of Social Work degree from the University of Texas at Arlington with a concentration in mental health. My Bachelor of Social Work degree and Psychology degree is from the University of Mississippi. I am also a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

Honestly, I’m very personable. Being from the south, I’m very laid back and a good listener. Those things help me connect with people on so many levels. I also benefit from being from a small town. There is a huge need for mental health and social services here. Having gone to school and grown up here, I have trust and a good reputation for people to trust my services. Lastly, I research everything, even more so as relates to my field of practice. I consider myself a subject matter expert, so my social media content reflects that. I’m great at translating research and textbook knowledge into layman’s term, using popular culture, or social media content.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

I didn’t expect to hop into private practice right after graduate school. I had planned to continue to work in healthcare for a few years full-time and practice on my own part time. When I moved back home after my dad passed, that was not much of an option due to lack of jobs. I used what little savings I had, found an office, and set up shop for my practice. It was sort of rushed, but it has worked out greatly. I have no regrets. I am a field instructor for social work students at local universities. I am contracted with the NBPA, local job corps center, a new program for NCAA athletes, and the Veteran’s Room to provide services.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.socialworkbae.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com
• Facebook: www.Facebook.com/socialworkbae1
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drsyreniajohnsonlcsw
• Twitter: www.twitter.com/socialworkbae
• Youtube: www.YouTube.com/socialworkbae
• Other: www.psychosocial-solutions.com

Image Credits
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