Today we’d like to introduce you to India Johnson.
Hi India, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Hi! I’m currently a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a small private practice owner. As a kid, I knew I wanted to be a “helper” and I was surrounded by nurses so I thought I’d go that route. However, I met a few social workers early in life and their approach to their work, and how they poured into others personally and professionally, touched me. I witnessed the intention of the work they did, but I also experienced it. My own experiences with trauma took me to therapy and I felt how supportive therapy can be when done with purpose and intention. My lived experience led me to volunteer work, which led me to get an education in social work, and well, the rest is history from there. I valued human connection, emotions, and walking with individuals as they work towards their own goals. I know I wouldn’t be where I am today without the amazing social workers (and nurses too) — Black women specifically — that shaped my personal healing and my professional practice.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
LOL, no. I love being a therapist but let’s be honest. We’re human. I’ve dealt with some serious shit in life while also simultaneously figuring out how to be a therapist – and they don’t teach you how to do that in graduate school. I can recall dealing with a traumatic experience while completing my Masters degree, and if it were not for the people who were safe spaces for me to land afterwards and some AMAZING peers in my program – who knows. Not to mention, I think there are always moments where imposter syndrome creeps in or my “perfectionist” voice gets a little loud. Now, I can bring compassion and gentle correction into the room so that those thoughts and feelings are no longer in control or holding weight. However, that’s been something I’ve learned over time and with practice.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Higher Purpose Counseling and Consulting, PLLC?
What I do: Individual therapy, consultation for new therapists (LCSW-A), therapy intensives, provider training and consultation
Services are offered via telehealth, with limited in person options in Durham, NC and Jamestown, NC or clients willing to commute to those areas.
Specialization: Sexual Trauma, Intimate Partner Violence, Perfectionism, Anxious Relational Attachment (i.e. folks who experience high anxiety, overthinking, difficulty with boundary setting, or people pleasing in relationships due to previous unhealthy relationship experiences with partners or parents/caregivers)
What sets me apart? I don’t have an answer to this from my perspective. However, I’m most proud of the feedback I’ve received from clients. They’ve let me know that 1) they’ve felt that our therapeutic relationship was productive, fun, and challenging and 2) they actually feel comfortable giving feedback vs. ghosting – we’re truly in the process together. My relationship with my clients will always come first, but I’m also bringing in evidence based tools and never too “experienced” to stop learning.To be honest, I’m not going to be for everyone and I’m okay with that. A big part of my work is knowing that my style, personality, and approach isn’t for everyone – but so far, my folks and found me and I hope they continue to!
As far as future offerings and services to look out for:
1. Therapy intensives will be offered in the Fall/Winter starting 2026. I’m really looking forward to being able to provide extended and more in-depth therapy sessions for those who desire that. More information about intensives and what they are will be available on my website soon.
2. I’m in the process of developing a resource directory to support finding Black therapists and other providers who support the healing process.
…… and honestly so much more! I have a few passion projects in the vault.The best way way to stay up to date would be to follow me on instagram and sign up for the newsletter on my website.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
Respect and Humility.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.higherpurposecc.com
