I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling. As the CEO and Clinical Director at Wellness 8, I have dedicated myself to expanding the scope of mental health care. After years of providing direct services within my community, I envisioned a broader approach to well-being—one that encompasses eight key components of Mental Health: Emotional Health, Physical Health, Nutritional Health, Spiritual Health, Occupational Health, Social Health, Intellectual Health, and Financial Health. These aspects form the foundation of Wellness 8’s mission to provide comprehensive care for individuals seeking to improve their overall well-being.
I am deeply invested in my community and collaborate with several organizations that share a commitment to education, health care, and vital resources, especially for vulnerable populations. My public service includes nine years on the Winchester Public School Board, during which I served as Chair for two and a half years and represented Congressional District 6 on the Federal Relations Committee. Currently, I serve as a Board Trustee for Valley Health Systems and as a member of Congressman Ben Cline’s Small Business Advisory Board.
Through my work and volunteer efforts, I actively engage with community leaders across diverse sectors to identify and address the needs of our population. I am passionate about creating sustainable solutions that support holistic health, education, and well-being for all.
MY THERAPEUTIC APPROACH
My therapeutic approach begins with a true person-centered perspective, understanding that my clients are the experts on their life’s journey. Collaboration is key. Coming alongside them, providing evidence-based treatment that appropriately encompasses Mental Health from 8 components- Emotional Health, Physical Health, Nutritional Health, Spiritual Health, Occupational Health, Social Health, Intellectual Health, and Financial Health has proven to improve individual outcomes that are sustainable.
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT
My clients can expect unconditional empathy while being empowered and challenged to navigate their mental health challenges, employing the techniques and strategies learned during their therapy sessions. My goal is to always create an environment where my clients feel safe to share and actively engage in their therapeutic process.
Lawrence Johnson or LJ as the community calls him is the Director of Community Relations at Wellness. He truly loves to help people and feels that it is an honor to be invited into people's lives when they need help and to be a support for those in need during some of their most difficult times. LJ has worked in the mental health field for over 25 years and still loves what he does.
LJ is an avid gym goer and loves to take vacations when he has the opportunity especially when food is involved. LJ enjoys cooking and baking for others and teaching while also learning new things himself. He is constantly seeking knowledge that he can share with the people that he has the pleasure to work with. LJ has a nursing degree, an exercise science degree, and a social work degree. He feels that we are all connected and by helping others you inadvertently help yourself.
Bryan is a dedicated professional with a diverse background in human services and mental health counseling. Growing up in Minnesota, Bryan found his passion for helping others early on. His journey took him to Winchester in 2003, where he pursued his college education while playing football. After earning his Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Bryan furthered his education with a Master's in Homeland Security and Emergency Management.
With over 20 years of experience in the field, Bryan brings a unique perspective shaped by his own troubled childhood. He understands the challenges his clients face because he has walked a similar path. Bryan believes that his faith has given him the ability to empathize deeply with his clients, seeing in them reflections of his own journey. Ultimately, Bryan is on a mission to foster positive change through his dedication, advocacy, and determination to make a lasting impact and create a legacy of compassion and empathy.