Kaprea F. Johnson, PhD, NCC, LPC

Candidate Statement:

I’m running for the ACA Board of Directors because I care deeply about how our profession shows up in practice and whether counselors feel supported. In my roles as a counselor educator and administrator, I spend a lot of time thinking about the gap between training, expectations, and the realities counselors face every day, especially as they navigate complex client needs, systems that are not always set up for success, and increasing levels of burnout. My research and practice have focused on interprofessional collaboration and on interrogating systems, not people, and I believe that perspective is critical as we think about the future of the profession. If elected, I would contribute to conversations that strengthen how ACA supports counselors across career stages, with a particular focus on practical resources, collaboration across disciplines, and ensuring that counselors in day-to-day practice see themselves reflected in the work of the organization. How I approach leadership is just as important as what I focus on. I’ve been recognized for my mentorship, and that reflects how I show up, as someone who builds connections, develops people, and creates spaces where others feel supported and included. I come from a large family, which taught me early on how to listen, communicate, and navigate different perspectives; skills that have carried into my professional life and leadership roles. In my current leadership work, including serving as President of AADA, I’ve focused on strengthening infrastructure while also creating opportunities for engagement, particularly for practitioners. For me, leadership is not just about moving initiatives forward, but about making sure people feel seen, valued, and part of the work. I would bring that same grounded, collaborative approach to the ACA Board, with a commitment to listening, contributing thoughtfully, and helping move the work forward in ways that are meaningful and sustainable.

Candidate Biography:

Kaprea F. Johnson, PhD, LPC, NCC, is a tenured Full Professor at The Ohio State University and serves as Associate Vice Provost for Faculty Development and Recognition. In this role, she leads university-wide efforts focused on faculty success, including initiatives related to research, teaching, mentorship, wellbeing, and professional advancement. Her work centers on creating clear pathways for faculty development, strengthening institutional structures, and building engagement across career stages. Dr. Johnson’s background includes counseling experience across school, clinical mental health, college, and career settings, where she has worked with clients navigating a range of developmental, academic, and mental health concerns. She holds an independent counseling license in Virginia and is a National Certified Counselor. Her practice experience continues to ground her work, with a focus on helping counselors navigate complex systems, respond to client needs shaped by broader contexts, and examine how organizational and policy environments influence both practice and outcomes. She is actively engaged in leadership and service within the American Counseling Association and is completing her term as President of the Association for Adult Development and Aging (AADA) (2025–2026), where she focused on strengthening organizational infrastructure, increasing member engagement, and expanding opportunities for practitioner involvement. She also serves as Editor-in-Chief of Adultspan Journal and Associate Editor for Counselor Education and Supervision. Her work has been recognized with awards, including the SACES Locke-Paisley Mentorship Award, the ACA David K. Brooks Mentorship Award, and the ACA Research Award for her role as a co-author on an article examining school counseling district leaders’ experiences with anti-DEI laws and policies. Across her roles, Dr. Johnson brings experience with governance, strategic planning, and program development, and is committed to mentorship, leadership development, and advancing the counseling profession through meaningful service.