During the pandemic, Eric Johnson, PhD, identified the mental health struggles people were experiencing and knew the community would greatly benefit from a practice that takes a neuropsychological approach and focuses on identifying and managing stressors. With a background in clinical forensic neuropsychology — and as a former radiologic technologist — Dr. Johnson brings his medical and hospital experience to improve mental health outcomes. The practice, which has been growing significantly, celebrated one year in business on July 10. 

Mental healthcare can be abstract, Dr. Johnson says. While talk therapy can play an important role, Compass Mental Wellness Services uses science-based interventions, “taking it one step forward,” with treatment planning that involves different types of psychotherapy, so clients can learn about their conditions, moods, feelings, thoughts and behaviors. They learn to take control of their lives and manage challenging situation with healthy coping skills. 

By teaching skills to retrain the brain, Compass Mental Wellness Services helps clients relax stress responses. As Dr. Johnson points out, “Traditional counseling is 60% effective, but based on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) research, when psychotherapy relaxes stress responses, outcomes can increase by 40%.”

“We’re living in a high-stress time, and our brains are only designed to handle so much,” Dr. Johnson adds. Compass Mental Wellness Services is here to help, also offering massage therapy and hypnosis. The practice is strongly connected to the community and understands its residents’ needs. The team at Compass is like family, and they’re proud of the care they can provide as a group.