About Prism Therapy Solutions
Introducing Hilary Johnson (she/her/hers), Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Professional Counseling Background
After receiving my Bachelor’s Degree in psychology from the University of Northern Iowa I moved onto Walden University, where I obtained my Master’s Degree in mental health counseling. Throughout the years, I’ve worked with Lutheran Services in Iowa, Children & Families of Iowa, and the Department of Human Services. For three years, I was a counselor at Orchard Place, later moving to a counseling clinic in the Greater Des Moines area. Through each part of this journey, Prism Therapy Solutions has been the dream.
Opening Prism Therapy Solutions
I established Prism because I’ve always wanted to offer a safe, open, and affirming space for everyone—especially those in the LGBTQIA+ community. Not everyone in the community has a support network they can depend on and I’m here to help fill that role. Prism Therapy Solutions is the place where my clients can feel free to be their true, authentic selves.
My Certifications
I’m trained in Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) and play therapy. I am also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). These are some of the tools I can use to help identify and address trauma and negative thoughts or behaviors when we work together.
LGBTQIA+ Counseling
Being a child, teen, and young adult is hard enough, but when you’re a child, teen, or young adult who identifies as LGBTQIA+, there can be additional stressors involved. These kids and young adults often experience bullying and losing relationships. They may lack support from family members, friends, educators, or even community members. All of these factors can lead to struggles with mental health. I want to offer this space for LGBTQIA+ youth to feel supported and work through negative experiences so they can live a happy, healthy, and fulfilled life.
Working with an LGBTQIA+ Counselor
Many individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community find that they’re most comfortable seeking therapy from an LGBTQIA+ identified therapist. There are several reasons for this. Many LGBTQIA+ individuals have had negative experiences previously in therapy that left them feeling unsupported, unheard, and misunderstood. Some individuals who have experienced conversion therapy and may be reluctant to return to therapy again would feel safer with a therapist who identifies as LGBTQIA+. As someone who has lived good and bad experiences living as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I’m able to understand clients who are also in the community on a deeper level.
In My Free Time
I grew up in southern Iowa but now live in West Des Moines with my wife, step-daughter, and daughter. Our home is full of life, thanks to our three dogs, two children, and over 50 houseplants. In our free time, we love to bake together, play board and card games, and relax on our patio in the evenings. We’re also big supporters of small local businesses, so you can often find us at local farmers markets, thrift shops, and restaurants in the Des Moines metro.
Get in Touch
I’m happy to answer any questions you may have about starting therapy. Please let me know how I can help by reaching out to me via email at hilary@prismtherapysolutions.com, calling (515)303-0160, or by booking an appointment today.