Robert Johnson

Comments from Robert about his approach to therapy:

We all have times in our lives that can shake us at our foundation. Coming into therapy, whether if it’s for the first time, or this has been a theme in your life takes courage.

I think to be helpful the first thing is to feel understood, feel heard, acknowledged, and validated. Next, it is to discover whatever it is that you’re facing means for you as an individual, then gaining skills with which to cope adaptively.

I believe acceptance is the key to facing difficulties in life. Acceptance does not mean approval, it means we learn to live life as it is, not how we want it. If there are things we can change or improve we do so, but if not, it is better to accept than fight against what can’t change. Of course, this is a process, and not an event. We must work through the circumstances. Struggling is a part of human existence, but so is happiness, contentment, and peace. I strive to help individuals find balance.

Education and Experience:

Robert holds a master’s degree in counseling education/counseling psychology from Western Michigan University. He is a Licensed Profession Counselor (LPC). He also has a graduate certificate from Western Michigan University Specialty Program for Substance Abuse (SPADA) and holds a CAADC. (Certified Advanced Alcohol/Drug Counselor (ICRC).

Robert Started in the helping field in 1989 working in an adolescent treatment program at Wedgwood Christian Services. In 1998, he became a therapist there. Many of the clients served were impacted by trauma, depression, anxiety, addiction, as well as broken families. In 1997 Robert received the direct service worker award from the Child Welfare League of America in Washington D.C. Robert served at Wedgwood until 2009. Next, Robert worked as an adult outpatient therapist at Pine Rest Mental Health Services from 2009-2018 serving adults coming out of the hospital and from the community. Robert’s last position was working as an outpatient therapist at Counseling Center of West Michigan. Robert has advanced training in EMDR, CBT, DBT, and motivational interviewing. He is skilled at treating depression, anxiety spectrum disorders including PTSD, bipolar, psychotic disorders, SUD disorders, supporting those that struggle with chronic medical illness, grief and loss, and codependency relational issues.

If you have further questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please call (616) 457-0016, extension 100.