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Hi! Welcome to the website! My name is Paul Johnston. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Iowa. As of today’s date, I have been a licensed therapist first in Colorado from 1995 to 2011, and then in Iowa since 2013. Overall, I have 33 years of experience providing mental health services for a wide range of different clients with varying concerns.
I believe in a client centered approach which means that I am focused on understanding your specific issues and concerns. Over the years, my work has led me to focus on depression, anxiety, stress reduction and trauma. My approach to therapy is based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. The treatment plans that we develop will be based on your individual needs and symptoms.
My approach is warm, and client centered. I believe in treating all my clients with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I do not believe in labels that stereotype. My approach has allowed me to work with individuals who prefer a Christian approach.
Making real change takes courage, determination and insight. Seeking help is usually the first step towards accomplishing those goals. If I seem like a good fit for you or a loved one, I look forward to working with you.
Professional experience
3yrs in practice
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
Additional areas of focus:Family conflicts, Grief, Intimacy-related issues, Sleeping disorders, Parenting issues, Anger management, Career difficulties, Bipolar disorder, Coping with life changes, ADHD, Abandonment, Autism and Asperger Syndrome, Avoidant Personality, Blended Family Issues, Codependency, Control Issues, Dependent Personality, Divorce and Separation, Family of Origin Issues, Family Problems, Fatherhood Issues, First Responder Issues, Forgiveness, Guilt and Shame, Infidelity, Men's Issues, Military and Veterans Issues, Mood Disorders, Obsessions, Compulsions, and OCD, Panic Disorder and Panic Attacks, Personality Disorders, Post-traumatic Stress, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), Self-Harm, Self-Love, Social Anxiety and Phobia, Young Adult Issues
These quotes represent just a few of the many positive reviews that we have received for Paul Johnston. We don't pay anyone to provide their review and they are all made voluntarily. Some people's experience receiving therapy with BetterHelp might be different.
I've been working with Paul for over a year and it's been extremely helpful in helping me deal with the enormous amount of absurd transitions and changes in my life. Paul is an excellent listener and is very compassionate. He's not afraid to ask the critical questions, even if my ego doesn't necessarily want to face it. Highly recommended.
Written on Aug 03, 2023 after therapy with Paul for 1 year and 4 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, addictions, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, intimacy-related issues, self esteem, anger management, career difficulties, coping with life changes, coaching, compassion fatigue, and adhd
Great all the way around.
Written on May 24, 2023 after therapy with Paul for 11 months on issues concerning intimacy-related issues, anger management, and coping with life changes
My sessions with Paul have always meant a lot to me. His insights, wisdom, and compassion have been EXACTLY what I have needed to get through a very difficult season in my life. He provided me with tools to process and really start to heal from my trauma. I knew I needed someone professional to talk to about my experiences, and to help guide me on my way toward wholeness, and God placed Paul in my life at the very time that I needed him. I am very grateful!!
[I worked with Paul as my therapist for about 12 weeks]
Written on May 20, 2023 after therapy with Paul for 2 months
Our family has been to several therapists until we found Paul. Paul has been the best therapist by far and everyone in our family feels comfortable in talking with him and listening to his great advice
Written on Apr 08, 2023 after therapy with Paul for 4 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, addictions, family conflicts, and trauma and abuse
Paul is an older soul that understands the complexities of life. He's helped me realize that I'm not alone, and that mental illness doesnt define me. Perhaps best of all, it doesn't even FEEL like therapy; More like I'm talking with a trusted friend.
Written on Mar 15, 2023 after therapy with Paul for 2 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, self esteem, and coping with life changes
Would happily recommend him to anyone. He offers great insight and experience to those who need it.
Written on Feb 21, 2023 after therapy with Paul for 2 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, and coping with life changes
Thank you for everything, Paul!
Written on Feb 16, 2023 after therapy with Paul for 2 weeks on issues concerning stress, anxiety, and trauma and abuse
So far, Paul has been very kind and caring. We share a lot of interests, which has helped us connect. I'd recommend Paul to anyone looking for therapy
Written on Jan 20, 2023 after therapy with Paul for 3 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, self esteem, coping with life changes, and adhd
Paul is the best, he is very understanding and kind in hard or light situations. He knows how to read you and know what questions to ask to get you the help you need. He’s been a great help for me!
Written on Dec 21, 2022 after therapy with Paul for 4 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, intimacy-related issues, and self esteem
Does very well and has been helping me.
Written on Oct 26, 2022 after therapy with Paul for 1 month on issues concerning depression, and coping with life changes
I've only had a couple of sessions, but so far I've been given nothing but kindness, understanding and support. This is my first time seeking therapy of any sort as an adult and any apprehensions I had were quickly put to rest by Paul. He presents himself confidently and his friendly disposition makes him easy to work with.
Written on Oct 23, 2022 after therapy with Paul for 2 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, and coaching
Paul has been so wonderful and helpful. Only had two sessions and he's already helped me help myself feel better.
Written on Sep 23, 2022 after therapy with Paul for 2 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, grief, parenting issues, career difficulties, and coping with life changes
Paul is exceptional. He listens to your wants and needs, helps you set goals and supports you. He has and continues to be extremely helpful. His insight and strategies in personal growth are wonderful. 10/10!
Written on Jul 03, 2022 after therapy with Paul for 2 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, self esteem, anger management, and adhd
Paul is down to earth, compassionate, and most importantly, wise. He clarifies and asks question to prompt thinking. He cares and responds to my needs.
Written on Jun 19, 2022 after therapy with Paul for 2 months on issues concerning relationship issues, family conflicts, intimacy-related issues, anger management, and career difficulties
I believe that God ordained our matchup on betterhelp . Paul has been exactly what I have needed at this stage in my life . And has given me some good key tools on moving forward . thanks for everything.
Written on Jun 13, 2022 after therapy with Paul for 2 months on issues concerning stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, and self esteem
Paul has been very insightful and eye opening in my journey of growth. He is very easy to talk to and receptive to my feelings.
Written on Jun 01, 2022 after therapy with Paul for 3 weeks on issues concerning stress, anxiety, relationship issues, intimacy-related issues, and self esteem
Paul is authentic, professional and cares about people.
Written on May 29, 2022 after therapy with Paul for 1 month on issues concerning stress, anxiety, and trauma and abuse
Paul is an excellent therapist that I would recommend without hesitation. I feel safe sharing and talking without fear of judgement or misunderstanding. Paul is fantastic at listening, expressing compassion, sharing genuine interest or concern, and offering realistic solutions and steps to take to overcome obstacles or difficulties. He encourages and praises regularly even if I feel I'm not making the progress I want and it helps me keep life in perspective.
Written on May 26, 2022 after therapy with Paul for 3 months on issues concerning stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, and coping with life changes
Paul is laid-back and down to earth in his style of communication. He empathizes well but also gives practical advice.
Written on Mar 31, 2022 after therapy with Paul for 3 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, self esteem, and coping with life changes
Amazing person, just what I was looking for
Written on Mar 23, 2022 after therapy with Paul for 2 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, self esteem, and compassion fatigue
Paul is very caring, personable and experienced. I really enjoy working with him and value his input.
Written on Mar 22, 2022 after therapy with Paul for 1 month on issues concerning intimacy-related issues, self esteem, and coping with life changes
Paul is a wonderful person who os really helping me and i am greafull for it.
Written on Mar 11, 2022 after therapy with Paul for 2 weeks on issues concerning depression, relationship issues, sleeping disorders, self esteem, and adhd
Paul is awesome
Written on Mar 10, 2022 after therapy with Paul for 2 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, grief, eating disorders, parenting issues, anger management, career difficulties, coping with life changes, coaching, and adhd
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