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Areas of Expertise

  • Mood Disorders

  • Child/Adolescents

  • Parenting Behavioral Issues

  • Coping Skills

  • Depression

  • Divorce

  • Peer Relationships

  • Anxiety

  • Relationship Issues

  • Self Esteem

  • Emotional Disturbance

  • Family Conflict

  • Life Transitions

  • Women's Issues

  • Stress

  • Trauma

  • Supervision

My Approach
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Sonia Johnston, MS, P-LPC: My Approach

As a counselor, I strive to meet people where they are with warmth, patience, and a listening ear. My approach to counseling blends Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with a Person-Centered perspective. I help individuals understand the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors while also creating a supportive environment where they feel genuinely heard, respected, and understood. I believe that when people feel safe and supported, they are better able to recognize unhelpful thought patterns, build healthier coping skills, and create meaningful, lasting change in their lives.

 

My goal is not only to help others navigate challenges but to help them discover the resilience and strength that already exists within them.

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My desire is to help others become the change they hope to see in their own lives. This is more than my profession, it is my purpose.

Dr. LaShaunda Smith, LPC-S: My Approach


My theoretical orientation is rooted in family systems therapy, which focuses on understanding how relationships and patterns within a family system influence an individual’s experiences. While this framework guides my practice, I always strive to tailor my methods to best meet the unique needs of each client. I believe that counseling is not a one-size-fits-all process, and my goal is to integrate techniques that resonate with my clients on a personal level.

In our sessions, I aim to incorporate elements that reflect the individual’s personality, interests, and experiences. Whether through creative expression, storytelling, or exploring shared activities, I help clients articulate thoughts and emotions they may find difficult to put into words. I view counseling as a collaborative journey—a partnership built on trust, understanding, and mutual respect. Together, we work to identify and explore current challenges, define meaningful goals for the future, and take actionable steps toward achieving those goals.

I approach therapy from a systemic perspective, examining patterns of thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to uncover the root causes of concerns and develop effective, holistic solutions. I work with individuals, couples, families, and groups, creating a safe and inclusive space for clients of all ages and backgrounds. My private practice primarily focuses on marriage and family dynamics, with a specialization in working with children and adolescents, including an emphasis on early childhood mental health.

Above all, my mission is to empower clients to navigate their challenges, foster resilience, and achieve personal growth. I am here to support you, guide you, and collaborate with you on the journey to a healthier and more fulfilling life.

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