DonnaSue Johnson: A Beacon of Hope and Compassion in Social Work

In the vast landscape of social work, DonnaSue Johnson stands out as a beacon of hope and compassion, tirelessly advocating for marginalized communities and individuals grappling with substance use disorders (SUDs) and mental health challenges. With a career spanning decades and a wealth of diverse experiences, DonnaSue’s journey exemplifies the transformative power of empathy, resilience, and unwavering dedication to serving others.

From her early days as a licensed clinical social worker in New Jersey to her current role as a social worker for St. Mary’s Center, Inc., DonnaSue has navigated every level of care in social work with grace and determination. Her resume reads like a testament to her commitment to making a difference in the lives of those who need it most, from crisis intervention in emergency psychiatric settings to case management for homeless individuals and adults living with HIV/AIDS and mental illness.

One of DonnaSue’s most remarkable achievements was her trailblazing work in New Jersey’s first-of-its-kind program for homeless mentally ill individuals. Despite facing challenges such as limited funding and misconceptions about her role, DonnaSue forged ahead, using her resourcefulness and compassion to assist individuals in transitioning from hotel living to a higher quality of life. Her willingness to go above and beyond, even using her own resources to provide small comforts like coffee and doughnuts, speaks volumes about her unwavering dedication to her clients’ well-being.

But DonnaSue’s impact extends far beyond her professional roles. As a tireless advocate for LGBTQ+ Older Adults, she is actively involved in organizations such as SAGE GRIOT Circle and Stonewall Community Development Corporation, working to address the unique challenges faced by this vulnerable population. Through her work with OWLS United Inc., DonnaSue is helping to create a supportive community where LGBTQ+ individuals can age with grace and dignity, challenging societal norms and advocating for inclusivity and equality.

What sets DonnaSue apart is not just her impressive resume or her long list of accomplishments, but her profound empathy and genuine care for those she serves. Whether she’s assisting clients in navigating housing transitions, providing clinical case management, or simply offering a listening ear, DonnaSue approaches her work with compassion, respect, and a deep understanding of the complexities of the human experience.

In addition to her impactful work in various social work settings, DonnaSue Johnson is also an active member of the SWEET Institute, an organization dedicated to providing empowering resources for mental health professionals. Through her involvement with SWEET, DonnaSue has been a model for her colleagues and embodies the Institute’s values of compassion, excellence, and continuous learning. She brings her wealth of experience and expertise to the table, contributing to the collective knowledge and growth of mental health professionals across the globe. DonnaSue’s dedication to her clients and her commitment to professional development serve as an inspiration to her colleagues at SWEET and beyond. Her unwavering commitment to excellence and her tireless advocacy to eradicating the stigma of Mental Health Treatment, especially in the Black and Brown Communities by providing psychoeducation with cultural humility make her an asset to both the SWEET community and the field of social work as a whole.

In a world where discrimination and disparities continue to marginalize vulnerable populations, DonnaSue Johnson is a beacon of hope, lighting the way for others to follow. Her unwavering commitment to social justice, her tireless advocacy for those on the margins, and her boundless compassion make her a true hero in the field of social work. As we reflect on her remarkable journey, let us be inspired by DonnaSue’s example and strive to emulate her unwavering dedication to serving others and creating a more just and compassionate world for all.

DonnaSue Johnson, LCSW, is a seasoned social worker with over 40 years of experience across various sectors of the mental health field.

Her journey in social work began with crisis intervention in emergency psychiatric settings, where she honed her skills in navigating complex situations and providing immediate support to individuals in distress. She has also worked in multiple Emergency Psychiatric Crisis Intervention Centers in New Jersey which required a NJ State Screener Certification. Throughout her career, DonnaSue has worked tirelessly to advocate for marginalized communities and address social disparities in access to care.

With a strong background in clinical case management, DonnaSue has helped countless individuals navigate the complexities of the healthcare system and secure the resources they need to thrive. Her expertise extends to group facilitation, where she creates safe and supportive environments for individuals to explore mental health, substance misuse, spirituality, and socialization.

In addition to her clinical work, DonnaSue is a passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ Older Adults, providing group support and education through organizations like SAGE and GRIOT Circle. Her commitment to holistic wellness and empowerment is evident in her dedication to providing personalized care plans for individuals living with HIV/AIDS, mental illness, and substance addiction.

DonnaSue’s unwavering dedication to serving others and her profound impact on the lives of those she encounters make her a true asset to the field of social work. Her compassion, resilience, and commitment to social justice serve as an inspiration to colleagues and clients alike.

DonnaSue has received awards for her outstanding work with NYC LGBTQ Older Adults: The 2022 Proclamation from Bronx Assemblywoman Chantel Jackson and the 2022 Award from Paul Nagle Executive Director and Sayief Lashaw Program Director of Stonewall CDC (Community Development Corporation)

DonnaSue loves referring to herself as a Big Black Beautiful Bohemian Bougie Buddhist Butch,  which was inspired by Audre Lorde a Black Lesbian Icon who taught at Hunter College and who encouraged her students to be able to describe themselves in one sentence.