Our Foundation
Dr. Amy Johnson
PhD Psychologist · Author · Coach · Speaker
Dr. Amy Johnson shares a groundbreaking new paradigm in mental health that has helped hundreds of thousands of people around the world tap into their natural, innate health and resilience — so they can overcome habits, anxiety, and self-doubt easily, with no willpower.
8-Dow's Change Coaches are trained directly in her methodology through The Little School of Big Change — the same insight-based approach that has transformed lives across the globe.
Her Story
She lived the problem before she found the answer
Dr. Amy Johnson experienced severe anxiety, panic attacks, and binge eating for several years. She was told by many well-trained, well-intentioned professionals that these issues would likely be with her for life in one form or another. They could become manageable — she could learn to cope — but they weren't the kind of things people just "got over."
Thankfully, nothing could be further from the truth.
Several years ago she came across a down-to-earth understanding of the mind that changed everything for her. It became the basis of everything she teaches and writes about — the foundation for how she helps people end unwanted habits and unnecessary suffering.
The insight? Your thinking creates your experience. And thinking, by its very nature, is temporary — always moving, always changing. You don't have to fight it, manage it, or outsmart it. You just have to see it for what it is.
PhD Psychologist
Formally trained psychologist who bridges science and a deeper understanding of the mind.
70+ Coaches Trained
Her Change Coach Training Program has certified coaches now working around the world.
3 Bestselling Books
Published works that have reached hundreds of thousands of readers seeking lasting change.
Podcast: Changeable
A top-rated podcast exploring how real, lasting transformation actually happens.
The Training Behind 8-Dow
The Little School of Big Change
Founded in 2017, The Little School of Big Change has helped thousands of people find freedom from anxiety and habits and live more peaceful lives. Dr. Johnson has also trained over 70 coaches in her Change Coach Training Program — including the coaches who power 8-Dow's work with returning citizens, people in recovery, and foster youth.
"The school doesn't give you tools to manage your mind. It helps you see your mind clearly — and that changes everything."
The philosophy behind 8-Dow's coaching model
Her Work
Books that have reached the world
The Little Book of Big Change
The No-Willpower Approach to Breaking Any Habit
A groundbreaking guide that reveals how habits aren't character flaws — they're just thought patterns. And thought patterns can shift without struggle.
Just a Thought
A No-Willpower Approach to End Self-Doubt and Make Peace with Your Mind
A compassionate, practical book that shows readers how to stop being at war with their own minds — and find lasting peace without techniques or tricks.
Being Human
Essays on Thoughtmares, Bouncing Back, and Your True Nature
A collection of essays exploring what it means to be a feeling, thinking human being — and how understanding that more deeply changes everything.
What her students say
"The Little School of Big Change helped me recognise that my life was my own. I now recognise that space within me which is my own essence and I engage with life moment to moment — seeing my thoughts but not necessarily feeling them all the time."
— Tracey
"Since doing Amy's work, I feel much more confident and really know my sense of well-being and self-worth. I approach each day as a new moment and am excited to realize how much I now actually love myself and others. I finally feel and know I am 'home'… within myself!"
— William
"I love that there are no techniques, rules, or steps in Amy's work. Just rediscovering that I am normal and healthy. I don't have a worry problem. I just have a busy mind like everyone on the planet, and that's SO incredibly freeing!"
— Amanda
See her work in action.
Our Change Coaches bring Dr. Johnson's approach to the people who need it most.
Meet the Change Coaches