About Rosanne Johnson, MA, RCC

Rosanne Johnson’s Counselling Background and Specialties

I’ve been practicing as a Registered Clinical Counsellor for over 20 years. I’ve had experience in a variety of different areas in therapy, including helping people overcome anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, relationship difficulties, confusion around coming out as a lesbian or gay person, as well as sexual orientation and gender identity. Through the years, the area that I’ve been most passionate about is providing counselling to individuals in the Vancouver 2SLGBTQAI+ community.

Professional Experience in the Vancouver 2SLGBTQAI+ Community

As a lesbian counsellor based in Vancouver, I have a deep understanding of both the issues and the diversity of culture of the Vancouver 2SLGBTQAI+ community. My clients appreciate seeing a therapist who “gets” what it’s like to be gay in a straight world. 2SLGBTQAI+ clients have often told me that because I’m a lesbian who’s been out for more than three decades, they know they can automatically trust that I will understand and not judge them for who they are.

Over the years, people have come to me with a variety of relationship and lifestyle issues that are vastly different from mainstream heterosexual values and ideals. They have trusted me to help them with situations that people outside of the 2SLGBTQAI+ community might never have even considered. They know that, however alternative their relationship or lifestyle is, I can handle it. There’s nothing that anyone can throw at me that I won’t be able to understand or accept.

To say that I’ve seen and heard it all is an understatement.

In fact, the more alternative the situation, the more fascinating and challenging it is for me to help people find solutions to whatever their problems might be.

Personal Background: 30+ Years as an LGBTQ+ Advocate

I’m a lesbian who’s been out for over 30 years. I was politically active in the ’70s and ’80s for 2SLGBTQAI+ rights. Over the years, I’ve continued to work as an activist for 2SLGBTQAI+ rights. I’m still an active member of the Vancouver 2SLGBTQAI+ community, and awareness of social justice issues has always informed my counselling practice.

I also care about the environment and enjoy connecting with nature whenever I can. I’m happiest when I’m in the woods with my dog or riding and hanging out with my horse. I’m fortunate to have close connections to my family and friends.

Education and Professional Credentials

I hold a Master’s degree in counselling psychology, and I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor. For the last six years, I have been training in Equine Assisted Counselling and Therapy. I’m pleased to offer this to my clients, either to enhance their counselling experience or as an alternative. www.wisemare.ca