Shayla Johnson, Ph.D., PMH-C, is a clinical psychologist with extensive experience in psychological evaluation and treatment. Dr. Johnson received a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in Clinical Psychology from Howard University in Washington, DC and a Masters of Science (M.S.) degree in Clinical Psychology from Loyola College in Maryland (now Loyola University Maryland).

Dr. Johnson’s journey to motherhood led to her desire to shift her professional focus to perinatal mental health. In July 2023, she was awarded a scholarship from the Seleni Institute for the Black Perinatal Mental Health Training. In December 2023, Dr. Johnson completed the Maternal Mental Health Professional Certificate Training by Postpartum Support International (PSI) and Policy Center for Maternal Mental Health. Dr. Johnson obtained the Perinatal Mental Health Certification (PMH-C) in October 2024. She is involved in the Alliance for People of Color as both a PHM-C Coach and as a 2025-2026 Alliance Fellow. As a part of the Alliance Fellowship, Dr. Johnson presented research alongside cohort members at the 39^th Annual PSI Conference.

Dr. Johnson is also passionate about perinatal mental health research and community outreach. Currently, she volunteers as a Research Assistant for Mothers & Babies: Mood & Health Research Program at George Washington University. Dr. Johnson is a member of the Neonatal Intensive Care Navigating Early Stress & Transitions (NICU NEST) research team where she assisted in facilitating workshops with former NICU parents and co-designing a novel mental health intervention. To date, she has been featured as a podcast guest on multiple platforms, sharing her clinical and research expertise in perinatal mental health, equity in care, and the lived experiences of families navigating complex healthcare systems.

Dr. Johnson is also the founder of Capital Region Assessment and Therapy Services (CRATS), a fully virtual private practice which will launch in 2026. CRATS will serve clients across Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia, with a focus on perinatal mental health. Through her clinical work, research, and leadership, Dr. Johnson is dedicated to advancing equity in maternal health and empowering birthing people and families to thrive during one of life’s most meaningful transitions. She plans to dedicate the next chapter in her professional career to the perinatal community through research and clinical practice.