Johnnie Geathers, MSW, LSW, is a dedicated mental health professional, speaker, and community advocate who is passionate about helping individuals and families thrive. His commitment to service began during his teenage years through volunteer work and community involvement, experiences that inspired his interest in understanding human behavior and supporting others through life’s challenges.

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Johnnie earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Human Development and Family Studies from The Pennsylvania State University in 2011. During his time at Penn State, he served two terms as an AmeriCorps member, helping facilitate summer youth programs through EducationWorks in Philadelphia. He also served as Diversity Chair for the Association of Residence Hall Students (ARHS), promoting diversity awareness and inclusion across campus.

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Following graduation, Johnnie attended The University of Pittsburgh, where he earned his Master of Social Work degree with a concentration in Direct Practice and a certificate in Children, Youth, and Families in 2013. Through field placements at the YMCA and Mercy Behavioral Health, he discovered his passion for therapy and mental health services while working with teens and adults experiencing co-occurring disorders.

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Throughout his career, Johnnie has worked with numerous organizations across the Greater Pittsburgh area, providing therapeutic services to children, adolescents, adults, and families. He currently serves as a Social Work Case Manager at Forbes Hospital and as a Mental Health Therapist at HandinHand Counseling Services, LLC.

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In April 2020, Johnnie launched “JG Mental Health Fridays,” a platform dedicated to increasing mental health awareness and providing practical coping strategies for everyday life. Through social media and YouTube, he discusses real-life challenges, emotional wellness, and self-care techniques in an approachable and relatable way. His work has expanded into speaking engagements, classroom presentations, podcasts, and written contributions for Helpful Living Magazine.

Outside of his professional work, Johnnie remains deeply involved in leadership and community service initiatives. He became a member of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. in Fall 2009 through the Eta Alpha Chapter at Penn State University and is currently affiliated with the Beta Omicron Omega Alumni Chapter in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Within the fraternity, he has held leadership roles on the local, regional, and national levels. ​

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In October 2025, he was appointed by Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and confirmed by the Pennsylvania Senate to serve on the State Board of Social Workers, Marriage & Family Therapists, and Professional Counselors and became a board member for Penn State Fraternity and Sorority Life's Alumni Advisory Board to bring connection of alumni to current Penn State students in Greek organizations. 

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Whether through therapy, advocacy, mentorship, or public speaking, Johnnie continues to make a meaningful impact by empowering individuals, strengthening communities, and promoting mental wellness for all.

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