CEO/Founder

Crystal Mullen-Johnson, the CEO/Founder of Strive Counseling Services in downtown Birmingham, AL, brings a wealth of expertise as an award-winning therapist with over 16 years of experience in mental health counseling. She earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree and Master’s Degree in Social Work at Alabama A&M University, and holds distinguished titles as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Private Independent Practitioner, and Registered Play Therapist. She is the President and Founder of Nurture of Alabama,  a nonprofit that provides mental health services to historically marginalized communities. 

 

Beyond her role at Strive, Crystal is deeply committed to several community service and professional affiliations. Her leadership extends to the community as the founder of a book club that empowers women to read, gain knowledge, and connect socially. She served on the board of the United Dreamers Foundation, provided mentoring services, scholarships, and benevolence to at-risk students, and contributed to the Birmingham Coalition for Student Mental Health. As a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, and a former advisory council member of STREAM Innovation, Crystal consistently exemplifies a commitment to excellence.

 

Furthermore, Crystal's contributions extend to publications and media, where she has been featured in reputable outlets such as Birmingham Times, Birmingham Business Journal, VoyageATL, and the National Association of Social Workers. Her insights have reached a broad audience through appearances on WBRC FOX6 News, CBS 42, WVTM, and various radio shows, including the Rickey Smiley Morning Show, 95.7 Jamz, 101.1 FM, and 107.7 FM. Crystal is also the author of "21 Day Journey to Strive for a Healthier You,” a notable accomplishment that stands as evidence of her dedication to comprehensive well-being and individual growth.

 

In the realm of clinical development, Crystal specializes in critical areas such as Suicide Prevention in Youths and Young Adults, Grief Strategies for Children and Adolescents, Stress Management, Anxiety, Depression and more. Her dedication and impact in the mental health arena have earned Crystal numerous accolades, including the Proclamation for the City of Birmingham for Nurture of Alabama Mental Health Day, the 2020 Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce Small Business Award, BBJ 2020 Woman to Watch, and recognition from the City of Birmingham StrongHER campaign. She is also a proud recipient of the Magic City Match program award.

 

A native of Demopolis, AL, Crystal finds joy in reading, golfing, exercising, traveling, and cherishing moments with family and friends in her leisure. Her passion for providing essential resources to the community and driving positive change underscores her profound impact on mental health awareness and wellness. Crystal is not only a dedicated professional but also a loving mother to her 15-year-old son, Ethan Johnson, and a cherished Labradoodle, Prince Johnson.