
Faculty
Our faculty and staff are in the forefront of the exploration of the causes and treatments of psychiatric disorders.
Samoan C. Johnson, Ph.D.
Biography:
Dr. Samoan C. Johnson is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. In addition to being on faculty, she manages the psychological services on the child and adolescent acute and forensic units at UT-Harris County Psychiatric Center (HCPC). Dr. Johnson provides critical psychological services to patients in acute emotional distress.
Dr. Johnson received her doctoral degree in Counseling Psychology from the University of Houston. She completed an American Psychological Association (APA) accredited predoctoral internship and a postdoctoral residency at the Houston Independent School District (HISD) in the Psychological Services Department. Dr. Johnson provided crisis psychological services and managed a school based mental health clinic for several years in HISD.
Dr. Johnson has conducted numerous presentations regarding multiculturalism, mood disorders, and suicidality. She has published research in major academic journals regarding the impact of racism on African-American’s well-being. She is particularly passionate about reducing the stigma of mental health in the African-American community. With a strong belief in mental health awareness and advocacy, Dr. Johnson serves on the board of directors and advisory boards of several organizations including the Houston Psychological Association, Family Services of Greater Houston, Interface Samaritan Counseling Centers, and the Joint Chief Commission on Children. Dr. Johnson is a past President of the Houston Association of Black Psychologists and an alumnus of the United Way Project Blueprint Leadership Program.
Dr. Johnson has received several community and academic awards. In 2005, 2007, & 2008, Dr. Johnson was named one of Houston’s Top 100 Young Professionals in H Texas Magazine. In 2007 and 2008, Dr. Johnson was highlighted in the editions of Who’s Who of Black Houston. In March of 2008, she was named as one of Houston’s “Women on the Move” in D Mars Magazine.
Education:
Dillard University, New Orleans, LA. B.A., Psychology, 1993
Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, IL. M.A., Counseling, 1996
University of Houston, Houston, TX. Ph.D., Counseling Psychology, 2004
Clinical and Research Interests:
- Racial identity, Ethnic identity, & Racial Discrimination
- Suicidality & Bipolar Disorders in Children
Publications (selected):
- Johnson, S. & Arbona, C. (2006) The Relation of Ethnic Identity, Racial Identity, and Race-Related Stress Among College Aged African-Americans. Journal of College Student Development, Vol 47 (5), 495-507.
Location & Contact
Mental Sciences Institute
1300 Moursund
Houston, Texas 77030
713.500.2500 Primary
713.500.2530 Fax
713.500.2525 Intake and Referral
Our Affiliations
Our affiliates include the following:
The University of Texas Harris County Psychiatric Center
The Mental Health and Mental Retardation Authority of Harris County


