About Emily Johnston

headshot of Emily Johnston in green top in front of eddison bulb wall

Unleashing Your Inner Strength: Navigating the Path Toward Healing and Life’s Greatest Potential

At the core of my counseling philosophy lies a balance between empathy and challenge. With deep compassion, I believe that every feeling is valid, though I also understand that not all emotions lead to a fulfilling life without thoughtful exploration and intention. By approaching counseling from a values-based perspective, I aid clients in identifying what matters most in their lives and empowering them to create lives that align with their values. I personally strive to live a life that is authentic to my values each day.

Through personal experiences, I understand the challenges that can arise from divorced parents, ADHD, anxiety, and depression. These are not just struggles I have studied but issues I have personally navigated. In my work within children's, youth, and college ministry, I have had the privilege of sitting with individuals in various life circumstances and stages. I strive to create a safe space where people feel seen, heard, and genuinely understood.

My Approach

As a therapist, I understand the importance of tailoring my approach to meet the unique needs of each client. For younger individuals, I incorporate interactive techniques like play therapy, creating a safe and engaging space for healing. With older teens and adults, I use humanistic and behavioral approaches alongside practical illustrations to help them explore their emotions and challenges. But my commitment goes beyond these techniques. I am dedicated to continuously seeking new ways to address and treat issues, always striving to find what works best for my clients. I am not a counselor who believes in a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, I mold my methods and strategies to meet you exactly where you are on your personal journey to growth and recovery.

“I Have Learned Now That While Those Who Speak About One’s Miseries Usually Hurt, Those That Keep Silent Hurt More.”

-C.S.Lewis

I have the privilege of working with children, teens, and young adults who are navigating various challenges in their lives. I employ an integrative approach that combines Client-Centered, Cognitive Behavior Therapy - specifically Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) Therapy, and Reality Therapy techniques to provide comprehensive and individualized support. In addition to talk therapy, I am a certified BrainCore Neurofeedback Technician. Neurofeedback is a non-invasive, holistic method for teaching the brain to function in a more balanced and healthful way. It pairs very well with talk therapy to treat concerns. This approach allows me to treat a broad range of problems that clients may be facing, ensuring that their unique needs are addressed.

While I am equipped to help with a wide array of concerns, I have a particular interest in anxiety and OCD as I am able to treat these conditions with specialty training of ERP, which is considered the gold standard treatment. Additionally, I enjoy working with mood disorders, ADHD, and relationship issues. When working with parents of children and teens, I have found success in bridging communication gaps by translating each party's perspectives into terms that resonate with them, working toward healing and connection. These are areas where I have seen the profound impact that therapeutic intervention can have on individuals and families. By utilizing evidence-based strategies and creating a nurturing and safe space, we can work together to overcome obstacles and foster positive growth.

Nurturing Faith, Empathy, & Joy on the Path to Healing

I am deeply committed to serving my church community. It is my joy and privilege to lead a discipleship group for teen girls, providing guidance and support as they navigate their faith journeys. The connections we form and the growth we witness within this group are truly transformative.

Beyond my church involvement, I have dedicated a significant portion of my life to community service. I have had the honor of working with many local non-profit ministries that serve the greater Birmingham area's need for food, housing, and foster care. These experiences have shown me the power of compassion and the profound impact we can make when we come together to uplift one another.

One cause that holds a special place in my heart is the fight against human trafficking. For years, I lent my skills and time to A21, a global non-profit organization. Their mission is to bring awareness to this grave issue and to rescue and restore survivors. Witnessing the resilience and transformation of survivors has left an indelible mark on my heart and further fueled my commitment to making a difference.

In the midst of my dedicated work, I am also a believer in finding joy and balance in life. Alongside my husband, I enjoy live concerts and the enriching experiences that come with travel and exploring new places. We also enjoy spending time with our bernedoodle, Junie B. who is named after my favorite childhood book series.

I share these aspects of my life with you to convey that I am not just a therapist; I am a compassionate companion on your journey. I understand the importance of connection, joy, and finding purpose in both the personal and professional spheres. Know that you are not alone. Together, we will discover the strength and resilience within you as we navigate the path toward healing and experiencing life to its greatest potential.

You Deserve To Be Heard, Validated, And Supported Every Step Of The Way.

There is a place for you to explore and discuss your challenges openly. In therapy at Insights Counseling Center, I will work with you to develop the skills you need to approach life with confidence. 

To find out more about how I can help, please email me.

Emily Johnston is an Associate Licensed Counselor (ALC; under the supervision of Dr. Jane Coleman) serving children, teens, and adults throughout Birmingham, Alabama in person and all of Alabama through TeleHealth. She holds a Masters of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The University of West Alabama. 

She maintains the following additional credentials and trainings:

  • Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP): The Gold Standard in Anxiety and OCD Treatment

  • BrainCore Neurofeedback Technician 

  • Diagnostic Classification of Mental Health and Developmental Disorders of Infancy and Early Childhood