Dr. Melakiya (Missy) Johnson

Dr. Johnson is a licensed professional counselor and a certified school counselor. She has worked as a counselor educator for 23 years. In addition, she is an adjunct professor for a clinical counseling program.

Dr. Johnson has experience working with children and families, providing individual and group counseling services. She has won many awards and grants for her counseling practice and work in the field.

Dr. Johnson holds many degrees, including a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, a Master's in Community Mental Health Counseling, a Master's in School Counseling, a Specialist in School Counseling, and a Doctorate in Counselor Education and Supervision.

My approach to counseling is grounded in the belief that every individual possesses inherent worth, resilience, and the capacity for growth, even during life's most difficult challenges. I view the counseling relationship as a collaborative partnership built on trust, empathy, authenticity, and unconditional positive regard. My goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental environment where clients feel heard, valued, and empowered to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences.

As an integrative counselor, I draw on multiple evidence-based theoretical approaches to meet each client's unique needs rather than relying on a single counseling model. I recognize that every person brings a distinct cultural background, life story, belief system, and set of strengths into the counseling process. Therefore, I tailor interventions to align with each client's developmental stage, presenting concerns, personal values, and goals.

As both a therapist and counselor educator, I am committed to lifelong learning, ethical practice, and professional excellence. I believe counselors have a responsibility to continually expand their cultural humility, remain informed by current research, and model compassion, integrity, and advocacy. Whether working with children, adolescents, adults, families, or future counselors, my ultimate goal is to empower individuals to recognize their strengths, overcome challenges, and create meaningful, purpose-filled lives.

Beginning counseling can bring a mix of emotions—hope, uncertainty, curiosity, or even anxiety. My goal is to make your first session a comfortable, welcoming experience where you feel respected, heard, and supported.

Our first session is primarily an opportunity for us to get to know one another and begin building a trusting therapeutic relationship. I recognize that sharing personal experiences takes courage, and I will never ask you to disclose more than you are ready to share. We will move at a pace that feels comfortable for you.

My counseling style is the use of creative techniques that are collaborative, culturally responsive, and strengths-based. I strive to create a space where all individuals are welcomed without judgment and where every aspect of your identity—including your culture, family experiences, beliefs, spirituality, and lived experiences—is respected. Together, we will identify your strengths, develop practical strategies for addressing challenges, and build upon the resilience you already possess.

By the end of our first session, you can expect to have a clearer understanding of the counseling process, begin identifying goals for our work together, and leave with a sense of hope and direction. Counseling is a journey, and you do not have to navigate it alone. I look forward to partnering with you as we work toward healing, growth, and lasting positive change.