During the past twenty years, it has often been said that Michael works most effectively with urban populations and clients referred to as “resistant” or possessing a "low level of functioning". Johnson captivates audiences as he thoroughly explains lifestyles and thinking patterns of the criminal drug offender, and provides cognitive approaches to working with today’s addict.

Johnson is also founder of the JusticeQuade Institute and routinely facilitates workshops and in-service training on chemical dependency issues covering; early recovery, grief, acceptance, surrender, social skills, identifying the causes of relapse, cultural diversity, family issues and eliminating job stress. He has lectured at the college and university level as well as within the private sector. He is the recipient of the International Telly Award for his video “Evolution of Madness.”

Johnson, a certified addiction counselor and social worker, attended Wayne State University where he received his degree in 1988. He currently resides in Oak Park, Michigan.