It is my goal as a psychotherapist to help every individual find the internal clarity they need to live their best life. Working together we accomplish this through various different therapeutic interventions and techniques.

My therapeutic orientation primarily includes Cognitive Behavioral and Experiential theories. I believe we each have undiscovered (and sometimes discovered!) elements within ourselves that contribute to difficulties in our relationships with our loved ones, at work, and even with perfect strangers. Identifying these can be an arduous process.

For family therapy I subscribe to Bowenian therapeutic concepts. As Murray Bowen suggested, the family is an emotional unit, and there are many complex interactions. Together we identify how the family system is functioning, and work through the various elements - including sibling positions, emotional cut-offs, differentiation of self, and more.

Having worked with animals in therapeutic roles for the last 10 years (most notably, Pet Assisted Therapy in hospital trauma centers), I have gained insight into the amazing way that these beings have an innate ability to heal. Over the last few years, this form of treatment has gained more recognition. In April 2012, I completed the PART I EAGALA Training and will begin to use the EAGALA's model of Equine Assisted Psychotherapy/Learning as part of my practice. If you are interested in learning more about this fascinating therapeutic process, please visit EAGALA's website: http://www.eagala.org/

Michaela Renee Johnson has a Masters in Psychology from Chapman University and works as a Marriage, Family Therapist Trainee, under supervision by a Licensed Marriage, Family Therapist. Additional concentrated training includes, trauma, child abuse & neglect, equine/pet therapy.

If you are currently experiencing a mental health emergency, call your local county crisis hotline, or 911. NPI #1528341039, CAMFT #100378, EAGALA Member.