Melissa Johnson

Melissa J. Johnson, Ph.D., licensed psychologist (PSY 13102), is the founder & CEO of the Institute for Girls’ Development in Pasadena, CA.  An expert on child and teen development with a Masters in Education and Doctorate in Counseling Psychology, Dr. Johnson has worked with children and teens for over 30 years. At the Institute, Dr. Johnson and her team deliver strength-based therapy, inspiring educational programs, and consultation with schools and districts to help create positive school climates.  Dr. Johnson’s approach to raising and mentoring youth draws together contemporary research in neuroscience, mind/body health, and evidence based interventions in mindfulness and social & emotional intelligence.
Dr. Johnson has been recognized by the State of California as an Outstanding Women in Business award winner in 2011. Dr. Johnson is former Interim Chair of the Masters Programs in Counseling at the University of La Verne and has served as an adjunct faculty member at both the University of La Verne and the University of Southern California.  Dr. Johnson is a welcomed local and national speaker.  Her peer reviewed publications have appeared in the Journal of Humanistic Psychology and Professional Psychology: Research and Practice. Her numerous articles about raising strong girls have appeared in community online blogs and newsletters.