Hi, I’m Valerie Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, Certified Grief Professional and Certified Professional Coach
I help adults and individuals with disabilities define and pursue their personal experience, professional career goals, and navigate life transitions.
About Valerie
As a deeply empathetic person, I’ve found that combining counseling and career coaching is a powerful way to help others pursue their goals.
At the start of my career, I worked closely with Peace Corps volunteers, supporting them as they transitioned back to civilian life and explored new career and post-secondary opportunities.
After that, I worked at an employment center, where I helped individuals with job placement and career development. I later advanced within the same organization, becoming a youth counselor and program coordinator, providing guidance to low-income college students and helping them navigate education, career planning, and life transitions.
Who & How I Help
Adults
Chronic Illness
Career & Workforce Development
Individuals with Disabilities
My Specialties
I specialize in working with adults to help them manage anxiety, stress, depression, ADHD, work issues, and career transitions. Person-centered by nature, I view clients as congruent, accepting, and value their experiences with empathy.
My Experience
I later became an adjunct professor. Teaching a success skills course, assisting students with professional development, and helping prepare them for ongoing education and promising careers.
Professionally
Journalism degree from Buffalo State College
Master’s degree in Counselor Education
CACREP Accredited through Virginia Tech University
Certified Grief Professional
Personally
I enjoy reading books on the topics of mental health, African-American literature, autobiographies, and the Farside Volume I and II for laughs. You can find me chatting with friends and family, scenic walking, and watching streaming series, documentaries, comedies, and sports (especially track and field).
