Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your consultation. Clear your schedule. Do your best to avoid interruptions during your session time. Let others know you will be unavailable for the duration of your session time. Turn off unused devices or put them on Do Not Disturb. Find a quiet, private location where you will not be interrupted. If you are sheltering at home with others and unable to find a private room, consider sitting in your vehicle or a secluded porch or outdoor area. Please make sure your chosen location is safe, and such that the potentially private nature of your meeting will not be easily overheard. Never drive during your session. If you are in a vehicle make sure you are parked in a safe location. Please do not indulge in drinking alcohol or using nonprescription mood altering drugs before your session. It's important that you are alert and focused during your session. If you are nervous, relaxation techniques can be used to help put you at ease. M

There are many people offering services of all different types. It can be confusing. Following is a glossary of common terms to help you better understand what's available and what's best for you. Aromatherapy : inhalation or bodily application (as by massage) of fragrant essential oils (as from flowers and fruits) for therapeutic purposes. The use of aromatic plant extracts and essential oils for healing and cosmetic purposes. There is a lack of  good medical evidence that aromatherapy can prevent or cure any disease, but it has been demonstrated to improve mood. For cancer patients, aromatherapy has been found to lower anxiety and depression symptoms. [21]   Anxiety is a normal reaction to stress and can be beneficial in some situations. It can alert people to dangers and help them prepare and pay attention. Anxiety Disorders differ from normal feelings of nervousness or anxiousness and involve excessive fear or anxiety. Anxiety disorders are the most common of mental d

PRIVACY Using a coach means no paperwork has to be filed through an employer. When using insurance, clients typically have to go through an Employee Assistance Program or a school for students. If the patient has government/public insurance then you can be sure there will be records regarding services rendered. Many people prefer that their employer, school, or government not know that they are receiving mental healthcare. Using a private coach means private records that no one other than the coach and client have access to. CLIENT CENTERED VS. SYSTEM DIRECTED Insurance companies want to save money. They are not going to pay more money than they have to; consequentially they have guidelines about what they will cover. Insurance companies can direct the number of sessions, and even the content and nature of services. For example, an insurance company may say they will only pay for 7 sessions of individual therapy for clinical depression; and stipulate that the treatment moda

I'm a Life Coach and Consultant. My true superpower is creativity, with a side of empathy. I have a Bachelor's Degree in psychology and social services (double major). I have a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology. I have Master's level certification in Stress Management. I became a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois in 2001 (until 2009), and a Nationally Certified Counselor in 2008 (present). I served as a counselor for many years. I have created numerous therapeutic tools, games, and resources for clients and for other therapists. I've worked in mental health clinics, hospitals, and health clinics. I've worked with children, adults, families, couples, and individuals. I've served a multi-cultural population with varied incomes. I am a published author. I  journal, write fiction, therapeutic stories, short stories, poetry, encouragements, reference material, and more. Therapeutic stories are stories that help bring breakt

Joanne Johnson is an independent contractor who provides services to agencies, groups and individuals seeking consultation. Specialties include Stress Management, Relocation Stress, Life Coaching, Aromatherapy, and Relaxation Training. Joanne is available to conduct groups, workshops, and provide coaching.