Darlene Johnson, MS, RMHCI

Here to Support You Every Step of the Way

Sometimes life gets hard.

You might feel overwhelmed by situations and question how to keep moving forward. Maybe your child is experiencing academic, social, or emotional difficulties, or your teen is struggling with life transitions and the everyday challenges of growing up. Perhaps anxiety, mood concerns, ADHD, autism-related needs, or another life challenge is making things more difficult.

I take a collaborative, strengths-based approach to counseling, developing treatment around your unique goals, challenges, and strengths. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment where you feel heard, respected, and empowered throughout your therapeutic journey.

When working with children and teens, I bring a perspective shaped by both my clinical training and three decades of experience working with children, families, and schools.

 

Experience

Before focusing on clinical mental health counseling, I spent 30 years as an educator with the School District of Palm Beach County. Throughout my teaching career, I worked with students from diverse backgrounds, collaborated closely with parents and school staff, and participated in school-based teams supporting student behavior, academic success, safety, and overall well-being.

My background also includes school counseling experience in both elementary and middle school settings, where I supported students experiencing social, emotional, family, and academic challenges. My work included individual counseling, peer mediation, and helping students navigate concerns involving self-esteem, relationships, coping, and school functioning.

My more recent clinical experience includes providing therapy to children, teens, and adults in private and community-based settings. I have also provided therapy and case management services to children and families, further strengthening my understanding of the different needs and systems that can impact a young person’s well-being.

My experience in education, school counseling, and clinical mental health gives me a broad understanding of the different environments that can influence a young person's emotional well-being. I recognize that challenges at home, at school, with peers, and during important developmental transitions can overlap. I believe in supporting the whole child while collaborating with parents and other important supports when appropriate.

 

Client Focus

• Children
• Teens
• Young Adults

Therapeutic Approaches

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
• Motivational Interviewing
• Play therapy techniques

• Psychoeducation

Areas of Focus

• Anxiety
• Mood concerns
• ADHD
• Autism spectrum-related needs
• Emotional regulation difficulties
• Social and emotional challenges
• Peer and relationship difficulties
• School-related stress and challenges
• Stressful life events and transitions
• Self-esteem concerns
• Parent and Family Support

Qualifications