Exploring Life & Business with Johanna Sozio of Zenith Counseling PLLC

Today we’d like to introduce you to Johanna Sozio

Hi Johanna, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Thank you so much for allowing me to share my story. I always knew I wanted to help people but during my college years, I floundered a bit and struggled to know which path to take, specifically which major to declare. It felt like an overwhelming decision with innumerable outcomes. Through guidance, prayer, and “taking the next step” I was able to complete by BA and enroll for my MA in Counseling. Once in Grad school, things fell into place and I knew that helping people through difficult emotions, life challenges, etc. was where I needed to be. After I graduated with my MA, I moved back home (New York) and was unable to find employment. Hiring was limited, and I was bright-eyed and bushy tailed, ready to put my clinical skills to work. Because of limited employment opportunities, I volunteered (unpaid) at an outpatient substance use program learning about the interplay between addiction and mental health. I began leading group therapy–>intensive outpatient groups, until eventually I was hired. Working unpaid was humbling but taught me to follow my passions and show up for myself and others, even in unconventional ways. Over time, I was promoted to Clinical Director and now I look back at that season of my life and reflect on how much I was able to grow (both professionally and personally) by getting out of my comfort zone.
After a few years, I stepped down from being Clinical Director when I had my daughter so that I could have work-life balance, and most importantly be available to her. Due to my husband’s own career path, we moved to RTP from NY-> NC and have loved being part of this vibrant community. Our family has grown and I had my son the year after we relocated. Because of family needs, I left community mental health and transitioned to working at private practices, until I made the decision to open up Zenith Counseling PLLC. Zenith is a mental health practice that focuses on prioritizing the needs of it’s clients and equipping them with resources for emotional healing. Everyday I am reminded that it is an honor that I have this opportunity to show up for my clients, the practice, and my family, and to not take this lightly.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
As I shared in my biography, there have been struggles. After graduating, finding employment was challenging and then volunteering unpaid posed it’s own set of financial challenges. There were times when I questioned if I had made the right decision but as a therapist when you sit down and reflect on the work that you get to do with a client: hearing their stories, reflecting on their resiliency and courage, and finding a path forward with them, it remains unparalleled.

Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Zenith Counseling PLLC?
At Zenith Counseling, our mission is to empower individuals to navigate life’s challenges with resilience and clarity. We are dedicated to providing a safe and restorative environment where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings without judgment. We use a client-centered approach to ensure that each person’s unique journey is respected and supported, fostering personal growth and healing.
I am an Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) and specialize in trauma, addiction, self-esteem struggles, and adjustment issues leading to anxiety and depression. I use EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Processing, to assist my clients.
Zenith is also thrilled to have Kristen Wright, LMFT-she works with clients who have ADHD, eating disorders, and symptoms of anxiety and depression. We are actively hiring and seeking mental health professionals to join our team to better serve the local community.
In 2025, we plan on offering group therapy-stay tuned!

Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions!

Pricing:

• $175/session
• We are in network with most insurance panels

Contact Info:

• Website: https://zenithcounselingpllc.com
• Instagram: @zenithcounselingnc
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Zenith-Counseling-PLLC/100093963883469/