Kristi Johnson, LICSW
Mental Health Therapist
My specialties:
- Social work
Professional interests:
- Mental health therapy
- Grief and loss
- Life transitions
- Adjustment to medical diagnosis
- Anxiety, depression and trauma
- Gender affirming care
- Weight management
- Relationship concerns
- Social anxiety
- School and sports related anxiety
Practice philosophy: In my work as a therapist, I aim to create a space that feels calm, relaxed, and welcoming. I take a laid-back approach, knowing that comfort is key to building a therapeutic environment for healing and growth. My goal is to be an engaged listener, helping clients explore their thoughts and feelings in a way that feels natural. I believe in the power of conversation and connection.
What are you passionate about and why? I am truly passionate about my career because it allows me to be an advocate for those who need support, while showing kindness and compassion in every interaction. I believe that through empathy and understanding, I can help others feel heard, valued, and empowered to navigate life's challenges.
If you weren't a health care provider, what would you be? I would own a hobby farm and create a retreat center for others to enjoy and visit the animals.
Why did you become a provider? When did you know this was the career for you? I decided to become a social worker during my first year of college after taking a psychology course taught by a social worker. I was always compassionate and caring, so it felt like a natural fit.
What is something you have learned from your patients? The power of resilience and grace in the face of adversity is something I deeply admire. Seeing individuals navigate challenges, heal, and grow is truly inspiring.
What is one of the challenges of this career you enjoy? And why? People often turn to a social worker or therapist to help them work through a problem or challenge. I truly enjoy using my analytical skills to guide clients as they navigate and overcome obstacles.
What is your personal health goal? Being active and healthy
What is the best thing you've done for your health or the best health advice you've received? My dietician friend always says, "Everything in moderation!" Depriving myself of things I enjoy never works well for me, so I enjoy small portions of good food and occasional treats without the guilt!
What are you most proud of? Supporting people through their most challenging times. Whether it’s guiding individuals and families through end-of-life transitions or helping others navigate life changes, I’m honored to be a source of support.
What are a few of your personal achievements? Being a wife and mother. Close relationships with my family. Having a group of long-time friends (some for over 40 years!). Being a safe person for kids to turn to in times of struggles at home.
Credentials
- LICSW
Board-certified specialties
- Social work
Personal interests
- Animals/pets
- Camping
- Paddle boarding
- Spending time at the lake
- Traveling
- Volleyball
Educational institutions
- University of St. Thomas
- College of St. Catherine
Memberships
- Minnesota Coalition for Death Education and Support (MCDES)
- Minnesota Counseling Association (MnCA)
- National Association of Social Workers (NASW)
Current licenses and certifications
- Licensed independent clinical social worker
Years of experience
- 16
Hospital affiliations
- Mercy Hospital
- Cambridge Medical Center
- United Hospital
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Major health plans we participate in
- Allina Health | Aetna
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota
- HealthPartners
- Medica
- PreferredOne
- SelectCare/LaborCare
- UCare
- UnitedHealthcare
Other health plans we participate in
- Medicaid/Medicare
- Aetna
- America's PPO
- First Health/Coventry
- CIGNA
- Humana
- Hennepin Health (formerly Metropolitan Health Plan)
- PrimeWest
- South Country Health Alliance
- United Behavioral Health
- Wisconsin Physician Services (WPS)