My name is Johna and I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker.  Originally from Wisconsin, I attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison majoring in English. It was during my sophomore year that I attended a social work class and found that my true passion was helping others to overcome adversity and reach their self-determined goals.  At that time, I changed my major to social work and graduated in 1999 with a BA in Social Work.  Following graduation, I moved to Charleston, SC where I took part in Americorps NCCC.  This experience only further fostered my professional aspirations to help others.  Following my time with Americorps, I returned to UW-Madison where I earned a Masters in Social Work.  I soon took a job serving adults with developmental disabilities and mental health needs living independently in the community.  This nine-year experience provided me with irreplaceable knowledge and relationships.

In 2011, my husband and I moved to his home town of Monticello, IA so that our children could enjoy the same small-town experience that we both had growing up.   After spending time home with my children, I returned to work by joining the hospice team at Above & Beyond Hospice. 

It is often during the most difficult times in life, which for some may be the loss of a loved one, that we begin to question where we have been, who we are today and who we will be tomorrow, next week, next year and at the end of our life.   For some, you may find that you are exactly in the place you want to be. For many others however, there may be something holding you back from feeling you are the person, friend, spouse, parent or co-worker that you want to be.   

I believe that while the experiences of yesterday directly affects who we are today, it is the intentional choices we make today, that decides who we are tomorrow.  It takes a great deal of inner strength to seek guidance from others, to recognize our need for help.  It is the first step in navigating your unique barriers and challenges so that you may reach your self-determined goals.  I celebrate your decision to begin this journey.