Kendra Johnson: LIMHP, cpc

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About Me

I’m originally from Hastings, Nebraska, and I bring my small-town roots with me into the therapy space—approaching people with warmth, honesty, and a genuine interest in their story. My path to becoming a therapist has been shaped by a deep commitment to helping others in ways that are practical, compassionate, and real.

Before entering the mental health field, I was a K–12 special education teacher. That experience taught me how to meet people where they are and adapt to individual needs with patience and empathy. I later worked with high-risk families in the community, helping them navigate tough systems and access the support they needed to thrive. My first therapy role was working in a correctional setting with high-risk individuals, where I developed a deep respect for human resilience and the importance of creating a safe space for growth—even in the most challenging circumstances.

Outside of therapy, I value humor, connection, and the little things that make life feel meaningful. I believe therapy doesn’t have to be stiff or overly clinical—sometimes, it’s the shared laughter, quiet insights, or small wins that make the biggest difference. Whether you're just starting out or have been in therapy before, I'm here to walk alongside you with compassion, honesty, and respect.

My Approach to Therapy

Therapy, to me, is a collaborative and empowering process. I believe that each person has the capacity for growth and healing—and my role is to help you access that inner strength in a way that feels supportive, grounded, and real.

My approach is client-centered, relational, and strengths-based. I take the time to truly understand your story, your goals, and what matters most to you. I work from a trauma-informed lens, always honoring your pace and your comfort, and I bring a non-judgmental presence to every session. I use humor and compassion intentionally—because I believe therapy should feel human, not clinical.

I draw from a range of therapeutic modalities including CBT, DBT, EMDR, and psychodynamic therapy. This allows me to tailor our work to your specific needs—whether you’re managing anxiety, processing trauma, navigating grief, working on identity development, or simply trying to feel more connected to yourself and others.

Most importantly, I aim to create a space where you feel safe to be yourself. Therapy isn’t about fixing you—it’s about helping you reconnect with your own voice, your own resilience, and your own direction forward.

What I Can Help With

I work with individuals and couples facing a wide range of emotional, relational, and identity-related challenges. Some of the areas I most often support clients with include:

Trauma and PTSD
Whether rooted in childhood, relationships, or major life events, I approach trauma with care, patience, and a trauma-informed lens. I help clients process and integrate their experiences so they can begin to feel safe, grounded, and empowered again.

Anxiety and Stress
From constant worry to panic attacks and everything in between, I work with clients to understand the root of their anxiety and develop tools to manage overwhelming thoughts, emotions, and physical symptoms.

Depression and Mood Disorders
When life feels heavy or hopeless, I offer a space to reconnect with meaning, build motivation, and access the supports that can lead to lasting change. I also work with individuals managing bipolar disorder with compassion and structure.

Grief and Loss
Grief looks different for everyone. Whether you’re mourning a loved one, a relationship, or a major life shift, I help clients honor their loss while finding space for healing and hope.

Identity Development
I support clients exploring who they are—whether in relation to their values, cultural background, mental health, or evolving sense of self. This can be especially helpful during life transitions or periods of personal growth.

LGBTQ+ Affirming Care
I am passionate about providing an inclusive, affirming space for LGBTQ+ individuals and couples. Whether you’re exploring your identity, navigating coming out, or just want a therapist who truly gets it—I’m here for you without judgment and with deep respect.

Social Skills and Relational Challenges
I help clients build confidence in communication, boundaries, and emotional connection—whether that’s in friendships, family dynamics, romantic relationships, or professional settings.

Training & Professional Background

I began my professional journey in education, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and Special Education (K–12) from Hastings College in 2009. My time as a special education teacher helped shape my understanding of individualized care, patience, and the power of supportive relationships.

Driven to support individuals and families more deeply, I went on to earn my Master’s in Mental Health Counseling from Doane University in 2015. Since then, I’ve worked in a range of clinical settings—including in correctional facilities and community-based services—supporting individuals facing complex trauma, systemic challenges, and high-risk situations.

I am a Certified EMDR therapist through EMDRIA and use this evidence-based approach to help clients process trauma and build emotional resilience. I also have specialized training in:

Gender Affirming Care

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Trauma and Attachment

Suicide Prevention and Risk Assessment

This diverse background allows me to bring both structure and flexibility to my work—adapting to what each client needs in the moment while keeping long-term growth in view. My clinical work is rooted in compassion, cultural humility, and a deep commitment to ongoing learning.

Populations I Work With

I work with a diverse range of clients and am committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and affirming space for healing, growth, and self-discovery. I welcome and support:

Older Adolescents (13+)

Helping teens navigate identity, mental health concerns, relationships, school stress, and the transition into young adulthood.

Adults
Supporting individuals across life stages as they manage anxiety, trauma, grief, depression, identity exploration, and personal growth.

Couples
Working with couples to strengthen communication, rebuild trust, deepen emotional intimacy, and navigate life’s transitions together.

LGBTQ+ Individuals and Couples
Providing affirming, nonjudgmental care for clients exploring gender and sexuality or seeking a space where their identities are respected and celebrated.

BIPOC Clients
Offering culturally responsive care that acknowledges the impact of systemic stressors, cultural identity, and intergenerational trauma. I approach this work with humility, respect, and a deep commitment to equity.

Neurodivergent Clients
Drawing from my background in special education, I support individuals with ADHD, autism, and learning differences in ways that honor and celebrate neurodiversity.

Clients Exploring Alternative Spirituality
I hold space for individuals whose spiritual or existential beliefs may fall outside of traditional frameworks, and I approach this exploration with curiosity, openness, and respect for each person's unique path.

High-Risk and Underserved Populations
My work in correctional and community-based settings has deepened my understanding of the challenges faced by individuals navigating trauma, systemic barriers, and high-risk environments.

A Bit More About Me

Outside of my work as a therapist, I’m an artist at heart. I love creating with graphite, charcoal, and pastels, and find that art helps me stay grounded and connected to the present moment. Creativity has always been an important outlet for me, and I value the way it allows for expression, reflection, and connection.

I'm also a passionate advocate for animals and people. I volunteer with The Good Life Bulldog Rescue and have adopted two amazing rescue dogs from the organization—one of whom, Jujubee, accompanies me to work every day. She's a sweet, friendly presence in the office and loves offering comfort, affection, and emotional support to clients (and anyone else lucky enough to meet her).

In addition to animal rescue, I actively volunteer with community organizations that promote equity and inclusion for all people—regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, or belief systems. I believe in showing up for others and contributing to a world where everyone feels valued and empowered.

I’m endlessly curious and committed to personal growth. I love learning about new ideas, exploring different perspectives, and continuing to grow both professionally and personally. Whether I’m diving into a book, taking a training, or simply having a meaningful conversation, I find joy in the process of becoming more fully myself—and I love supporting others on their own journeys to do the same.