Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Theresa Johnson. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Theresa, so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?
Being the only one in the room who looks like me has, in many ways shaped the way I lead and connect with people. When I first started out on the journey to become a nurse injector I distinctly remember telling one of the trainers at a conference that I dreamed of one day opening my own medical spa. Their response was baffling because she asked who would be my target clientele as an African American female injector? She told me there are not many African American injectors, and African American women don’t typically frequent medical spas. At that moment I looked around and realized that in a room of 50 people, there was only one other African American being trained. The rest of the students were either Caucasian or Asian. Instead of letting this discourage me, I used it as fuel to push harder at pursuing my dream. I sought out more trainings, continued to practice, and train with other highly skilled injectors. And before I knew it I had not only gained the confidence to open my own medical spa. Later down the line, I also started a training program to train other injectors, which allowed me to level the playing field by offering high-quality trainings to a more diverse population of injectors. I’ve learned to look at my experience as not only an obstacle that I overcame, but also as an opportunity to educate, inspire, and pave the way for others who look like me.
There were definitely times early in my career when I questioned whether I belonged in the industry–an industry that frankly, doesn’t always reflet the diversity of the clients it serves. But I came to understand that my presence alone has power. My perspective matters, my skill set matters, and my story matters. To be effective and successful, I focused on a few key things:
excellence in my craft-I committed to being so skilled and knowledgeable that my work would speak for itslf. When you show up prepared and deliver consistently great outcomes, you earn respect no matter who’s in the room.
owning my identity unapologetically- I stopped trying to shrink myself to fit n. I embraced my culture, my heritage, and the unique empathy I bring to caring for clients of all backgrounds. The authenticity has been a magnet for people who value inclusive, affirming, care.
educating others-I see every encounter as an opportunity to expand people’s understanding of beauty, rejuvenation, and the importance of culturally competent care.
At the end of the day, being the only one who looks like me in many spaces has made me stronger, more intentional, and ore passionate about opening the doors for the next generation. It fuels my purpose and reminds me every day why representation truly matters.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
Dr. Theresa Johnson is a Doctoral prepared, board certified Nurse Practitioner. She attended the University of Michigan for undergraduate studies, followed by the University of Rochester in New York for her second bachelor’s degree and Master of Science in Nursing degree, with a Family Nurse Practitioner specialty. In 2018 she received her Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Chamberlain University.
Dr. J has always been passionate about health, wellness, and beauty. She has spent several years studying the human body, and developed a love for aesthetics. She believes that everyone should be able to look and feel their best. In order to do this, an environment of trust must be established between the Provider and the patient. Thus, she developed SKNtopia Med Spa. At SKNtopia we specialize in helping you achieve a rejuvenated and more youthful appearance. We value health, wellness, and beauty, specializing in the most up to date, research driven practices. We offer PDO Thread Lifts, Botox, Dermal fillers, IV Vitamin and Hydration Therapy, Weight Loss, and Facials.
The best part about my job is that I am able to sit down and listen to my clients individual needs and come up with a personalized treatment plan that addresses their specific needs. As a busy mother myself, many of my clients are mothers, sisters, daughters who spend so much time caring for others, that they often forget about the importance of self-care. In the end, seeing the smile on my clients face, and a boost in their confidence is really an amazing, rewarding feeling that reminds me of why I got into this profession.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
The three most important skills that have made me a successful nurse injector would be:
1. A deep clinical expertise and knowledge of facial anatomy. Masterig facial anatomy, especially the vasculature and muscle dynamics is critical to be able to deliver safe, precise injections and predictable outcomes. Understanding how products and dosages work properly helps to deliver consistent results and prevent complications. Staying current with evidence-based practices and continuously investing in advanced training sets you apart from other injectors.
2. Having an aesthetic eye and great artistic judgement. Technical skills of injecting is only one small part of the equation; but your ability to see balance, proportion, and harmony is what creates beautiful outcomes. This is what builds your reputation as an injector clients trust with their face.
3 .Strong communication and great bedside manner. Its essential t be able to have effective consultations where you are able to listen carefully, set realistic expectations, and also educate your clients. This builds confidence and client loyal.
If a novice injector masters these three skills. They will lay down a foundation for a thriving respected practice.
Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
The most impactful thing that my parents did for me growing up was instilling in me an unshakable belief that no matter what room I walked into, I was capable and worthy of accomplishing anything that I set my mind to if I worked hard. They always reminded me that my identity, being a young Black woman, was not something to overcome, but something to celebrate and be proud of. They led by example: working hard, carrying themselves with integrity, and showing me that excellence was not optional, but expected. My parents also encouraged me to pursue my education and never settle for less that what I deserved. Even when I didn’t see people who looked like me in certain spaces, their voices in my head told me, You belong here. You earned this. That foundation of confidence and self-respect is what fuels me as an injector and business owner. Its why I’m passionate about creating a welcoming space where my clients feel seen, heard, and valued.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.theSKNtopia.com
- Instagram: SKNtopia_Medspa
- Facebook: SKNtopia Med Spa
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