Her Story
About Imani
Imani Johnson is a Registered Behavioral Health Technician at Strides ABA, where she provides in-home Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services to clients with individualized behavioral plans and goals. In this role, she delivers direct one-on-one interventions under the guidance of a BCBA, while collecting, documenting, and analyzing behavioral data to support each client’s development and progress. Johnson’s work reflects her strong interest in psychology, education, behavioral health, and developmental support.
Johnson earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Education from Mount Holyoke College in 2024 after graduating from Success Academy Charter School in New York as a member of the Class of 2020. Before entering her current role, she served as an Educational Talent Search Counselor with the federally funded TRIO program at Bronx Community College, where she supported more than 450 high school students in the Bronx with college applications, high school completion, postsecondary planning, and personal development. She holds certifications as a Registered Behavioral Technician, in Basic Life Support (BLS), and in Narcan administration. She is also a member of the Association for Equality and Excellence in Education and plans to join the National Association of Social Workers.
Currently pursuing a Master of Social Work at Syracuse University, Johnson continues to expand her knowledge and professional impact in social work and behavioral health. She has participated as a panelist for the Black Excellence in Education Association for Emerging Leaders and received a plaque recognizing her advocacy efforts. Johnson attributes her professional success to her resilience and ability to adapt and pivot through challenges. Her combination of behavioral health experience, educational counseling, advocacy, and graduate-level social work training positions her to make a meaningful contribution to the individuals, families, and communities she serves.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Imani
01What do you attribute your success to?
My resilience and ability to pivot. There are many times where I was lost, I didn't know what to do, I didn't know if I wanted to keep going, or if this was something I wanted to do, but the ability just to get back up and just say, water off a duck's back, and tomorrow's a new day really helped me change my perspective on just living.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Learn what's important to you and don't let anyone try to stray you elsewhere. If this is something you're passionate about, stand on it, and if this isn't the job for you, if this isn't the job that's providing you with what you need, don't be afraid to leave. You gotta owe it to yourself to stand on what you believe in and follow that path.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women entering my industry not to be afraid to ask questions or challenge the status quo. If something does not make sense or does not seem effective, speak up and ask, “Why are we doing this?” Asking thoughtful questions can encourage others to reconsider established practices and lead to better approaches. I believe it is important to be confident in your perspective, remain curious, and never hesitate to question whether there is a more effective way to do things.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I value creativity, meaningful relationships, and personal growth in both my work and personal life. Outside of work, I enjoy expressing my creativity through crafts and painting, and I recently made felt keychains for myself and my best friends. I also enjoy building LEGO sets, horseback riding, which I first discovered as a Girl Scout and quickly grew to love, and reading. Most importantly, I value spending quality time with my friends and the people who are important to me, as these experiences bring balance, joy, and connection to my life.
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