Q: TELL US ABOUT YOUR ROLE AT HELP IN THE HOME?
Ryan:
“I began my journey with Help in the Home as a weekend-shift Supported Living Community (SLC) specialist. After several years in this role, I transitioned to living on-site while continuing to fulfill my weekend responsibilities. Throughout the week, I provided additional support as needed, helping ensure continuity of care and serving as an on-site resource for emergencies and unexpected situations. I also occasionally accompanied clients on outings, whether to enjoy a meal together or participate in social activities, fostering meaningful connections and supporting their overall quality of life.”
Johnstone:
“I joined a year ago as a Community Specialist, providing direct support to clients in our beautiful community. I have since been promoted to Care Coordinator, where I now focus on coordinating care plans, supporting our direct support team, and ensuring our clients receive consistent, person-centered care. “
Q: WHAT IS YOUR EXPERIENCE WORKING IN THE MENTAL HEALTH FIELD?
Ryan:
“My educational journey began in the nursing and healthcare field, where I earned my CNA, GNA, and PCT certifications. I attended Howard Community College in Columbia, Maryland, where I built a foundation in healthcare and patient support. In addition to my healthcare credentials, I hold an associate degree in Business Management and recently earned a DC Property Management Certificate.
Throughout my education and professional journey, I’ve developed a strong appreciation for helping others, building meaningful connections, and creating supportive environments. My background in healthcare, combined with my experience in business management and property management, has equipped me with a diverse set of skills that I bring to my role at Help in the Home. I value the opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of the individuals I support and believe that patience, compassion, and understanding are essential to providing quality care.”Johnstone:
“I hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and I am a Certified Addiction Counselor, Certified Peer Recovery Coach, MANDT Certified, and a Certified Medication Technician (CMT). I bring diverse experience across behavioral health and developmental disabilities. I have worked as a Recovery Support Specialist, Community Support Worker, member of an Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) Team, Psychiatric Counselor, and as a House Manager supporting individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (ID/IDD).“
Q: WHY DID YOU CHOOSE A CAREER IN MENTAL HEALTH?
Ryan:
“I chose a career in the mental health field because I’ve always enjoyed helping others, providing support, and looking out for people’s well-being. I’ve always believed that making a positive difference in someone’s life, whether through a simple act of kindness or being there when they need support, is truly meaningful. I wanted to turn that passion into a profession where I could make a lasting impact. Working in this field allows me to build meaningful connections, encourage independence, and help individuals feel supported, valued, and understood.“
Johnstone:
“I was drawn to mental health because I believe everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and supported without judgment. My background in nursing showed me that healing is not just physical, it is also emotional and mental. That understanding led me to this field where I can walk alongside individuals on their recovery journey and make a meaningful impact everyday.“
Q: WHAT DOES BEING A SERVANT LEADER MEAN TO YOU?
Ryan:
“To me, being a servant leader means leading by example, putting others’ needs first, and making sure the people I support feel valued, respected, and heard. I believe leadership is not just about giving direction, but also about being willing to step in, lend a helping hand, and provide support whenever it’s needed. My passion for helping others is what drew me to the mental health field, and I carry that same mindset into my leadership approach. I strive to lead with compassion, patience, and understanding while encouraging others to grow, feel supported, and reach their full potential.”
Johnstone:
“To me, being a servant leader means putting the needs of our clients and our team first. It’s about leading by example, listening actively, supporting others to grow, and empowering both staff and clients to be their best. It’s not about being in charge it’s about taking responsibility to serve.“
Q: HOW DO YOU TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF?
Ryan:
“I believe taking care of myself is essential to being able to show up for others in the best way possible. I make my health and well-being a priority by eating healthy, staying active at the gym, and spending as much quality time with my family as I can. I also enjoy engaging in my hobbies, which help me relieve stress, stay focused, and recharge. Finding a healthy balance between my personal life and professional responsibilities allows me to maintain a positive mindset and continue giving my best to the individuals I support.”
Johnstone:
“I practice self-care by maintaining balance and boundaries. I make time for rest, physical activity, and reflection, and I stay connected with family and friends who keep me grounded. Taking care of myself allows me to show up fully and compassionately for the individuals and team I support.“
Q: TELL US A FUN FACT ABOUT YOURSELF?
Ryan:
“Something you may not know about me is that I teach kickboxing, which allows me to share my passion for fitness while helping others build confidence and discipline. I’m also involved in real estate investing, particularly rental properties, which has become another area of interest for me. Outside of work and my professional pursuits, I love going to the beach, where I can relax, recharge, and enjoy some time away from my busy schedule.”
Johnstone:
“Something people might not know about me is that I am a youth soccer coach for my 6-year-old son and his friends in our community just for fun . I really enjoy mentoring kids on and off the field. I also speak multiple languages, which has helped me connect with people from diverse backgrounds.“
Q: ANYTHING YOU THINK WE SHOULD KNOW ABOUT HELP IN THE HOME?
Ryan:
“One of the biggest reasons I was drawn to this field is personal. I have a childhood friend, whom I’m still very close with today, who lives with mental health conditions. Growing up, I naturally looked out for him and made sure he was okay, especially when we were going to school together. Even at a young age, I felt a strong desire to help, support, and be there for others.
Looking back, I realize that those early experiences helped shape the person I am today and influenced my decision to pursue a career in this field. In many ways, working at Help in the Home feels like a full-circle moment because it allows me to continue doing what has always come naturally to me: looking out for others and making sure they feel supported. I’m grateful to be in a position where I can turn that lifelong passion into meaningful work. For me, this role is more than just a job; it’s an opportunity to make a positive difference in people’s lives and help them feel valued, understood, and cared for.”
Johnstone:
“What I would like people to know is that at Help in the Home, we do more than provide services; we build relationships and restore hope. My role as Care Coordinator allows me to bridge the gap between clients, families, and our support team to ensure everyone feels supported and empowered. I am proud to be part of an organization that truly believes in person-centered care and second chances.“
If you’re interested in learning more about our amazing team members, check out these blogs:
Team Member Spotlight: Terence Anderson
Get to Know Us with a Team Member Spotlight: Morgan McCulley
Our Program Director Reflects on 10 Years of Service: Maura Beehler
Start living life to the fullest with the help of our caring and dedicated team. To schedule your free consultation, fill out this short form or give us a call at (866) 967-9994.