Meet Andy

Life has a way of bringing out the best in us. For some, it could be learning your calling. For others, it might be finding your way. Occasionally, when both come together, a surprising epiphany occurs.

Hi, my name is Andy Johnson. I grew up in New London, Wisconsin but my story actually began in South Korea. I was adopted when I was a few months old. My adopted parents were remarkable people, because of them, I was blessed to be raised by learning about both cultures. This set the stage to look at things from multiple perspectives.

Growing up I was surrounded by music. It seemed a natural fit that beyond high school, I would go on to become a music major. But life has a way of changing the path you believed you were meant to travel. And so, it was for me.

I am a survivor of a devastating accident. Momentarily left with a host of severe injuries, the diagnosis was that I would never walk again. But here is where the power of the mind and soul can sustain a person.

The challenge to live the life I wanted was strong within me. Coupled with a life lesson of never giving up, I was motivated to make my life as I had planned. However, an interesting added benefit took place which totally surprised me.

I came back to beat the odds by not only walking again but returning to UWGB to complete my music degree. It was during this time a mentor in the psychology department suggested I take a class in his field. Long story short, I fell in love with psychology. And in no time, I completed a degree in Psychology.

I would go on to UW-Madison and earn a master’s degree in Rehabilitation Psychology. I also certified as a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor and Licensed Professional Counselor.

Why do I tell you my story? Because we all have a story that needs to be told. If a person is dealing with anxiety, depression, or a traumatic event, they need to tell their story. Plus, it helps if the person they choose to work with is someone who has walked (and still is walking) a difficult walk as well.

One of the greatest lessons I have learned is this…life can be tough. But take heart, for there are people out there who are here to help lift them out of their darkness. My primary goal in life is to assist others in lifting them out of difficult places.

Andy Johnson, MS, CRC, LPC

My Experiences As a Counselor

I work with both teens and adults who are working through:

  • Trauma/Post Traumatic Stress Adaptations

  • Dissociative Adaptations

  • Grief

  • Sports Performance Issues

  • Life Transitions

  • Dual Diagnosis (mental health and/or substance use issues)

  • Christian Counseling needs

  • Other mental health issues (Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders)

One of my main goals is to help my clients develop positive coping skills. I provide tools that are individualized and effective in overcoming a wide range of issues and symptoms.

The main therapeutic roots used are solution-focused and person-first theories. Meaning, together we build a roadmap to success, especially when discussing which interventions to be used.

Along with the above approach, I am Certified in Brainspotting - the Neuroexperiential Model of healing created by David Grand, PhD (https://brainspotting.com). This brain-body healing model was developed using the relationship between the client and clinician to help heal the person from the inside out.  

My goal is to make each person feel at peace and empowered and for each client to see progress toward their goals while in therapy and beyond.

My additional strengths lie in working with individuals who have anxiety, depression, experienced traumatic events. I also work with teens and adolescents on mood regulation, trauma recovery, and self-esteem issues.

Also, I have experience in helping individuals with disabilities to re-enter the workforce or staying employed. Finally, as a Korean adoptee, I am sensitive to the needs of adopted children and teens. Helping them to navigate the fear, feeling and frustrations they may be experiencing. This can also be true of the issues that parents of the adoptees may be coping with at the same time.

Credentials

The following is a list of my educational (both professional and non-professional) background:

  • Bachelor of Arts in Applied Music

  • Bachelor of Science in Psychology

  • Master of Science in Rehabilitation Psychology

  • Certified Rehabilitation Counselor

  • Licensed Professional Counselor

  • Certified in Brainspotting

  • Member of the Wisconsin Counseling Association

  • First Degree Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do

    • Various under belt (colored belt) ranks in: Karate, Okinawan, Kubudo, and Philippino Eskirma

Lulu and Ruger (behind)

In my free time, I enjoy playing video games, spending time at the cabin in the summers, fishing, all things music, and spending time with my wife and fur babies (two dogs and two cats).

Milo and Oliver (Ollie)