Today we’d like to introduce you to Johanna Carter.
Hi Johanna, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I was born and raised in the Philippines and moved to the United States in 2007. I’m a mother of two, now ages 17 and 13. When my daughter was just four years old, she was diagnosed with cancer—an incredibly challenging time that deeply shaped our family’s journey.
I was also married to my ex-husband, who served in the military and faced struggles of his own. Those challenges ultimately led to the end of our relationship, marking another difficult chapter in my life.
As the middle child in a family of six, with parents who were not always present, many of my emotional needs went unmet. I learned early on how to navigate life on my own. While life has brought many hardships, those experiences fostered my deep compassion and desire to support others.
My greatest strength has always been my faith in God, which has guided me through every season. Today, I feel deeply grateful for all I’ve experienced, and I give back through my private practice, Riverside Counseling LLC.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It has not been a smooth road. My journey has included many challenges that shaped who I am today. After moving to the United States in 2007, I navigated life as a mother while facing one of the most difficult experiences any parent can endure—my daughter being diagnosed with cancer at just four years old. That time tested my strength, resilience, and faith in profound ways.
My marriage also brought challenges. My ex-husband served in the military and faced struggles of his own, which ultimately led to the end of our relationship. That chapter of my life was painful and required me to rebuild and find stability for myself and my children.
Growing up as the middle child in a family where my emotional needs were not always met also presented its own difficulties. I had to learn independence early and find my own way without consistent support.
While these experiences were not easy, they deepened my compassion and strengthened my commitment to helping others. Through it all, my faith in God has been my anchor, guiding me forward even in the most difficult times.
We’ve been impressed with Riverside Counseling LLC, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My work is deeply rooted in both my professional training and my personal life experiences. My journey from moving countries to building a life in the United States, to facing hardships like my daughter’s cancer diagnosis and the end of my first marriage—has given me a deep sense of empathy and perspective. These experiences allow me to meet clients where they are, with genuine care and understanding. What sets me apart is the combination of my lived experiences and my professional knowledge. I don’t just offer tools and techniques; I offer a space where people feel truly seen, heard, and supported. My faith and resilience have shaped how I show up for others, and I bring that same strength and compassion into every session.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I’m always open to connecting with other professionals, organizations, and community groups who share a passion for supporting mental health and well-being. Whether it’s partnerships, referrals, or community-based initiatives, I value opportunities to work together to better serve others.
