Today we’d like to introduce you to Dede Johnson, LCSW.
Hi Dede, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My path to becoming a therapist didn’t begin with a single defining moment, but with a growing curiosity about people-their stories, their pain, and their resilience. I found myself drawn to listening deeply, asking thoughtful questions, and wanting to understand not just what people were experiencing, but why.
Along the way, I saw first hand how unprocessed experiences, relationships, and life transitions can shape the way we move through the world. I also saw how powerful it can be when someone feels truly heard and supported. Those experiences sparked my decision as well as I had a genuine heart pull to this work.
I originally started my professional life practicing law, but after three and a half years, I felt a clear pull toward a path that better aligned with my values and purpose. I went back to school, and many years later, I’m grateful to be doing work that feels deeply meaningful to me.
I completed my education and clinical training with a strong focus on developing both technical skill and genuine human connection. Through coursework, supervision, and hands-on experience, I learned and witnessed meaningful change in others—especially when paired with empathy, collaboration, and respect for each person’s unique story.
What ultimately led me to this work was the belief that healing doesn’t mean “fixing” someone. It means creating a safe space to explore, grow, and reconnect with oneself. As a therapist, I strive to meet clients where they are, honor their lived experiences, and support them in building insight, resilience, and self-compassion.
Becoming a therapist has been both a professional and personal journey-one that continues to evolve. I’m deeply grateful to do work that centers authenticity, connection, heart and hope.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Not at all! As I mentioned before, I actually began my professional life in a completely different career. I feel fortunate that I was able to listen to what truly felt aligned for me and make a change.
I’m also very much a human in process. This journey inevitably comes with bumps along the way, and I see those moments as opportunities to learn more about myself and others. My hope is to as much as I can remain curious, open, and in a continual state of learning!
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
As a therapist, I work with individuals navigating grief and loss, as well as complex and developmental trauma. I provide a supportive and steady space where clients can explore painful experiences at their own pace, make sense of how past wounds may be impacting their present lives, and reconnect with their inner resilience and their authenticity. My approach is trauma-informed and collaborative, honoring each person’s unique story while gently supporting healing, heart, strategies, and growth. Together, we work toward greater self-understanding, clarified sense of self, and renewed sense of connection—to oneself and to others.
What truly sets me apart as a therapist is the heart I bring into the work. I show up with genuine curiosity, care, presence, and deep respect for each person’s experience. I believe healing happens not only through techniques or insight, but through feeling truly seen, heard, and accepted. I approach this work with compassion, humility, and openness, holding space for both pain and possibility. My intention is for clients to feel safe enough to be real, supported enough to grow, and reminded that they do not have to walk their journey alone.
Being both a therapist and a parent deeply shapes how I show up in this work. Parenting continually reminds me of the vulnerability, complexity, and resilience that live within all of us. It has strengthened my capacity for patience, empathy, and compassion, and keeps me grounded in what it truly means to care for another human through uncertainty, growth, and repair. These experiences inform my therapeutic work in quiet but meaningful ways, helping me hold space with greater humility, understanding, and respect for the real challenges people face in their everyday lives.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
There are truly so many influences that it’s hard to name them all but here are some! I’m deeply drawn to Francis Weller’s work, and I’m continually supported by the NARM approach, including the teachings and writing of Brad Kammer and Larry Heller. I also value the community and resources offered through the Complex Trauma Training Center. In addition, I find ongoing inspiration and learning through podcasts such as All There Is with Anderson Cooper, We Can Do Hard Things, The Trauma Therapist Podcast, and Transforming Trauma, among many others.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.breathetherapeutic.com
Image Credits
It is on the one that needed it!
