Merin Johns

About Me as a Human…

When I am not in therapy-land, you can find me:

Spending quality time with loved ones, hiking, biking, trying new cuisines, and travelling. I also love watching movies and planning adventures to new places like Europe, Thailand, and Japan. Exploring different cultures inspires me and helps me grow as a person and therapist.

Self Care:

I prioritize balance in my life by staying active, spending time in nature, and connecting with friends and family. Travel and new experiences also bring me joy and help me recharge.

For Fun:

I enjoy hiking, exploring new foods, working out, and travelling. My last big trip was to Germany, and I’m hoping to see more of Europe soon!

For Growth:

I’m currently preparing for my EPPP exam to become a fully Registered Psychologist in Alberta. I’m also planning to pursue training in EMDR, the Gottman Method, and Hypnotherapy to deepen my skills.

Something unique about me is:

I’ve worked extensively with culturally diverse populations, gaining insight into the unique challenges faced by individuals from different backgrounds. This experience has helped me bring empathy and cultural sensitivity into my therapy practice.

Before I was in the mental health field, I was working with Alberta Health Services.
The most impactful thing about my experience here was learning how to create safe and inclusive spaces for individuals from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds. This taught me the importance of understanding each client’s unique experiences to foster their mental well-being.

Three things you are currently obsessed with and why:

Personal and professional development:

• I’m always seeking ways to grow and improve my skills as a therapist.
• Travelling: Exploring new places broadens my perspective and helps me connect with people from all walks of life.
• Learning therapeutic modalities: I’m excited about EMDR and other evidence-based therapies that can have a transformative impact on clients.

The most helpful book I have read is “Ikigai.”

My biggest takeaway from it was the importance of finding purpose in life and how this leads to fulfillment and longevity.

The most interesting article or book I have read is:

“Man’s Search for Meaning” by Viktor Frankl because it highlights the human capacity for resilience and finding meaning even in the face of suffering.

My favourite podcast is “Science of People,”

and the best thing about it is the practical tips it offers for improving social skills and building connections.

Specialty and Specific Interest Areas:

Client populations

I have a special interest in working with adults aged 25 and above because they bring a wide range of life experiences and are often eager to engage deeply in therapy.

Clinical concern

I have a special interest in working with emotional disturbances and attachment concerns because addressing these areas fosters resilience and helps clients build healthier relationships.

Non-clinical concern

I have a special interest in working with boundary-setting and self-esteem because these are foundational skills that empower clients to take control of their lives and improve their overall well-being.

Expertise and Additional Areas of Study:

I have the following additional courses / workshops / training:

• Bachelor’s in Psychology
• Master’s in Clinical Psychology
• Preparing for EPPP certification
• Upcoming training in EMDR, Gottman Method, and Hypnotherapy

I have expertise and experience working with:

• Culturally diverse populations: Through my work with Alberta Health Services, I’ve gained experience supporting clients from various cultural and ethnic backgrounds.
• Adults with anxiety, depression, and attachment concerns: I help clients uncover unhelpful patterns, set goals, and develop practical coping strategies.
• Relationship issues and boundary-setting: My approach helps clients create healthier dynamics and build stronger self-confidence.

Some of the clinical orientations, methods, and theories I draw from are:

• CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy): I use CBT because it effectively helps clients identify and change unhelpful thought patterns that contribute to emotional distress.
• DBT (Dialectical Behaviour Therapy): DBT provides tools for managing intense emotions and improving interpersonal effectiveness.
• Solution-Focused Therapy: I love this approach because it empowers clients to focus on solutions and immediate progress, fostering motivation and hope.

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People like working with me because I bring warmth, empathy, and cultural sensitivity to every session. Clients appreciate my ability to create a safe space, my clear guidance through challenges, and my structured approach to achieving meaningful and lasting change.