Zachary Johnson

While working as a tennis coach for 12 years, mostly with high-performance athletes, Zach noticed that his clients often lacked certain skills. But those skills are not often taught in schools or extracurricular activities. Especially when coaching children, he observed that many had trouble regulating their emotions. Others had trouble paying attention, which frequently limited their performance. Some held problem attitudes and beliefs that left them with an overwhelming sense of helplessness. Zach realized that helping students overcome these challenges would be the most meaningful endeavour he could pursue.

In our outcome-focused culture, abstract notions of success often interfere with self-care. But ironically, such thinking decreases the chance of achieving meaningful goals. Thus, Zach wants to help people develop these skills so that they can thrive in a world that sometimes seems devoid of understanding and kindness.

Zach has been practicing mindfulness for more than a decade, and he loves to share his skills and experiences. He invites you to join him on a path of compassion, self-discovery, and reflection.

Qualifications/Experience

B.Sc. Psychology, Buddhism, Mental Health, Linguistics (University of Toronto, degree expected 2020)

Applied Specialization in Mindfulness Meditation (University of Toronto, certificate expected 2019)

Mindful Moments Facilitator (Health and Wellness, University of Toronto)

Family Support Volunteer, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH, 2010-12)

Mack Lab Research Assistant (Centre for Biological Timing and Cognition, University of Toronto)

Budding Minds Research Assistant (Memory and Development, University of Toronto)

Coach 2, Club Professional 2 Certified Tennis Coach (Tennis Canada, 2017)