Ellie Johnson

Hello, I'm Ellie Johnson, a licensed professional counselor, registered play therapist, and proud owner of Esprit Counseling LLC. My therapeutic approach is a unique blend of child-centered play therapy and synergetic play therapy, all illuminated through the lens of neuroscience and interpersonal neurobiology. This distinctive method allows me to connect deeply with children while also providing parents with insights into the science behind their child's behaviors and emotions. As a play therapist, my primary focus is guiding children on their journey to discovering their most authentic selves. I firmly believe that through play, children can explore their thoughts and emotions in a safe and nurturing environment, fostering growth and resilience. Recognizing the indispensable role parents and adults play in a child's life, I am equally committed to helping parents reconnect with their inner child. This process empowers them to become the best possible support systems for their children. Parenting, in my view, is a partnership, and I'm here to facilitate that transformative journey. My specialization lies in addressing a range of concerns, including depression/anxiety, behavioral issues, lack of emotional regulation, adjustment difficulties, low self-esteem, child/parent relationship challenges, grief, and ADHD behaviors. I am trained to work with clients as young as 2 years old, and I approach my practice with a trauma-informed perspective. I earned my master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from UL Lafayette in 2018. During my student and intern years, I managed the Play Therapy Clinic at The Clinic for Counseling and Personal Development. Additionally, I gained valuable experience in an acute care setting, supporting adolescents on their journey. As a licensed professional, I've worked across diverse settings, including inpatient hospitals for children, long-term residential care for adolescents, and private practice. With the recent opening of Esprit, my goal is to extend my assistance to as many parents and children as possible, creating positive transformations in their lives.