Megan Johnson, PhD
Clinical Psychologist
10 years of clinical experience
GENERAL AVAILABILITY:
Mondays 2:30PM - 5:30PM
Tuesdays 2:30PM - 5:30PM
These hours are a general scope of availability, and do not constitute a guarantee of availability. Additionally, these hours are subject to change.
As a clinical psychologist with a background in research, and a foundation in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), Megan’s therapeutic approach is grounded in evidence-based practices. Her modalities encompass a range of techniques drawn from CBT, including cognitive restructuring, behavior modification, and skills training. During session with Megan, clients can expect a collaborative and structured process where you work together to identify and challenge negative thought patterns and behaviors. Through a supportive and empathetic environment, Megan aims to empower parents and clients to develop coping strategies and problem-solving skills to navigate challenges effectively. With a focus on understanding the interplay between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, clients can anticipate gaining insight into their emotions and experiences while learning practical tools for managing difficulties. Ultimately, Megan’s goal is to facilitate positive change and empower clients to lead fulfilling lives.
Inspired By
As a scientist-practitioner in clinical psychology, Megan’s journey is driven by a profound passion for bridging the gap between cutting-edge research and tangible, transformative outcomes for her clients. Having dedicated decades to studying child psychology and the emergence of disorders, she’s gained invaluable insights into the complexities of human development and the factors influencing mental health. Megan believes that it's not just about understanding disorders academically; it's about translating that knowledge into practical interventions that make a difference in the lives of those she serves. Choosing this path feels more like a calling to Megan—a convergence of my innate curiosity, academic rigor, and deep-seated desire to effect positive change. Combining research and clinical practice has allowed her to reconnect with the human element, where each interaction offers the opportunity to witness resilience, growth, and the profound impact of evidence-based interventions firsthand. In essence, Megan didn't just choose this path; it chose her—a journey fueled by a relentless pursuit of understanding, compassion, and the unwavering belief in the transformative power of psychological science.
Specialties
Generalized Anxiety
ADHD
Social Anxiety
Depression
Conduct Disorder
Oppositional Defiant Disorder
Separation Anxiety
Phobias
Specialized Training
Behavioral Parent Training
Empirically Supported Treatments
Disruptive Behavior Disorders
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Child Psychology
Anxiety
Tell Me More!
What gets Megan out of bed each morning is the anticipation of the human stories she'll encounter, and the opportunity to be a part of someone's journey toward healing and growth. The thought of being able to offer a listening ear, a compassionate heart, and practical guidance to individuals in need fills Megan with a profound sense of purpose and excitement. In her day-to-day life, she strives to cultivate genuine connections with those around her, to learn from their experiences, and to offer support wherever she can. Whether it's witnessing a client's breakthrough in therapy, or simply sharing a moment of connection with a colleague, she finds immense fulfillment in the simple yet profound moments of human interaction. Ultimately, Megan’s daily pursuit is to contribute positively to the lives of others and to find meaning and joy in the shared journey of growth and healing.
In addition to her role as a clinical psychologist, Megan is a wife and proud mother of three beautiful little girls who bring immense joy and fulfillment to her life. Outside of work, Megan cherishes every moment spent with her family, whether it's exploring nature together, sharing laughter over a board game, or cuddling up for a story before bedtime. As an avid runner, Megan finds solace and rejuvenation in the rhythm of her footsteps against the pavement, allowing her to clear her mind and reconnect with herself. Additionally, Megan is an unapologetic Disney fanatic, finding delight and wonder in the magic of fairy tales, enchanting characters, and the timeless stories that capture the imagination. Whether it's planning their next family trip to Disney World or simply enjoying a classic Disney movie night at home, Megan’s love for all things Disney adds an extra sprinkle of joy and whimsy to her life. Finally, Megan is a Florida girl at heart. She thrives in the warmth of the sun and her happy place is the beach. There's something truly special about the feeling of sand between her toes and the rhythmic sound of waves crashing against the shore—it's where she feels most at peace and connected to nature.
Background
Megan’s journey to becoming the professional she is today has been shaped by a deep-rooted passion for understanding and addressing disruptive behavior disorders, particularly conduct disorder, criminal behavior, and psychopathy. During her graduate studies, Megan immersed herself in the study of these disorders, delving into the complexities of their etiology and impact on youth. Working in a kid lab and later in various incarcerated juvenile facilities provided her with firsthand insight into the profound effects of early adversity on the lives of young individuals. It was here that she recognized the critical importance of early intervention in shaping positive outcomes.
Seeking to deepen her understanding of developmental processes and intervention strategies, Megan pursued a postdoctoral position at UC Berkeley, where she focused on exploring windows of neuroplasticity and neuroendocrine functioning in early childhood and adolescence as it relates to the onset of disorders. This research underscored the significance of identifying key periods for intervention, offering opportunities for leveraging change and promoting positive development.
Transitioning to a role as a research professor at UC Berkeley allowed Megan to continue her scholarly pursuits while also satisfying a growing desire for direct clinical engagement. Yet, she found herself yearning for personal interaction with clients, prompting her to incorporate clinical work back into her professional life. This led Megan to establish her own individual remote practice and later take a Clinical Psychologist role at Healthy Minds, where she strives to strike a balance between research and clinical endeavors.
Today, Megan is dedicated to integrating her expertise in research with her commitment to providing evidence-based interventions for individuals facing behavioral and emotional challenges. Whether conducting research at one of her two appointments (UC Berkeley and the University of Oregon) or working directly with clients in clinical settings, Megan’s overarching goal remains consistent: to contribute to the well-being and resilience of individuals and communities through a holistic approach to understanding and addressing mental health concerns.
Education
Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Florida State University, Summa Cum Laude
MS & PhD in Clinical Psychology from Florida State University
Post-doctoral fellowship at University of California, Berkeley