Stephanie Johnston

LCSW

Specialities:

Stephanie Johnston

Stephanie creates a safe, compassionate space for people moving through life’s most challenging emotional experiences. With years of experience in trauma treatment at the VA, acute psychiatric care, and hospice social work, she brings deep clinical expertise and a profound respect for each person’s healing journey. Her approach blends evidence-based therapies—such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness practices—with holistic and transformative modalities including Brainspotting and Quantum Healing Hypnosis Technique. She has a heart for the neuro-spicy, the spiritually curious, and the beautifully unconventional, helping clients reconnect mind, body, and spirit as they find balance, clarity, and a renewed sense of wholeness.

Stephanie Says…

When you work with me, you can expect a gentle, grounded presence and a space where all parts of you are welcome. I’m endlessly curious about human nature and how we navigate the complicated pathways of being human. I hold deep respect for the wisdom you already carry; I will never direct your path, but instead walk beside you, helping you make sense of what feels tangled and holding steady as you move through the emotions, beliefs, and sensations that arise.

I grew up on a farm riding horses and hauling hay; consequently, my humor is dry, and my style is direct yet gentle. With degrees in social work, psychology, and studio art, I’m happy to bring creative expression into the therapy hour if you choose. Sessions often weave together laughter and tears, acceptance and change. Clients tell me they appreciate my authenticity, my trustworthiness, and the depth of knowledge I bring across therapeutic models, as well as my genuine care for their healing.

I do this work because I believe profoundly in the resilience of the human spirit and our ability to reclaim parts of ourselves we thought were lost or forgotten. To me, therapy is sacred work — a union of honesty, courage, and transformation. I’m inspired by the neurodivergent, the spiritually curious, and the beautifully unconventional souls willing to explore their inner landscapes. If you’re highly sensitive, deeply intuitive, or living along the outside edges of the overculture, you’re likely part of my tribe. Healing happens when we feel safe, seen, and gently supported in reconnecting with our authentic selves.”

If you’re looking for a therapist who blends grounded clinical skill with intuitive, integrative healing, I’d be honored to walk alongside you.

Stephanie's Modalities

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Dialectical Behavior Therapy teaches practical skills for emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and healthy relationships. It supports balance, resilience, and meaningful behavioral change.

Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Acceptance & Commitment Therapy helps individuals accept difficult experiences while committing to values-based action. It supports psychological flexibility and meaningful, lasting change.

Mindfulness-Based Practices

Mindfulness-based practices cultivate present-moment awareness and emotional regulation. They support stress reduction, clarity, and a more grounded response to life’s challenges.

Trauma-Informed Therapy

Trauma-informed therapy recognizes the impact of trauma and prioritizes safety, trust, and empowerment. It supports healing through compassionate, respectful, and collaborative practices.

Brainspotting

Brainspotting is a therapeutic approach that helps access and process deep emotional and physical experiences. It supports trauma healing by using focused awareness to activate the brain’s natural healing capacity.

Quantum Healing Hypnosis Technique (QHHT)

Quantum Healing Hypnosis Technique guides individuals into a deep relaxed state to access inner awareness and insight. It supports emotional healing, clarity, and self-exploration at a subconscious level.

Creative & Expressive Therapies

Creative and expressive therapies use art, movement, and imagination to support emotional expression and healing. They help individuals access insight, release stress, and explore experiences beyond words.

Somatic Awareness

Somatic awareness focuses on the mind–body connection to support healing and regulation. It helps individuals release stored stress, build body awareness, and restore balance.

Integrative & Holistic Approaches

Integrative and holistic approaches address the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. They support balanced healing by combining multiple modalities tailored to individual needs.

Feeling overwhelmed?

It’s okay. Come as you are and find a therapist and a treatment plan you vibe with. It’s time to take the first step on your journey to healing.

Experience the Rock City Counseling Difference

Licensed Therapists

Mental Health & Wellness

Trauma-Informed Therapy

LGBTQ+ Friendly

Judgment-Free Space

Request An Appointment