Demopolis native honored among 2020 Women to Watch

BIRMINGHAM – Crystal Mullen-Johnson, CEO and Founder of Strive Counseling Services, has been recognized as one of Birmingham Business Journal’s 2020 Women to Watch annual award series.

The Demopolis native has more than 16 years of experience providing mental counseling to individuals and families.

The honoree is a licensed clinical social worker, private practice independent practitioner and registered play therapist. Mullen-Johnson is committed to making a difference in the lives of those who want to improve the quality of their mental health but are afraid to seed guidance because of the negative stigmas associated with “therapy,” especially in underserved minority communities.

The Women to Watch awards honor women who have emerged as key leaders in their companies or organizations, have potential to shape the future of Birmingham’s business world and who are primed to make a significant impact in the city’s business community.

“This award symbolizes the torch my parents passed along for me to live out their legacy, to have a positive impact in the community and in other people’s lives,” said Mullen-Johnson.

“It’s also a reminder of the foundational principles they established that I still stand on this very day; these principles allow me to strive to serve and uplift others in our community.”

The BBJ receive more than 200 nominations for this year’s awards. Honorees were chosen based on their career accomplishments, their potential for future leadership and contributions to their organization and the overall economy, as well as other factors.

Mullen-Johnson was recognized by the City of Birmingham as one of the 200 Front Line Workers during the COVID-10 pandemic. The mayor’s office recognized her during the #StrongHer Campaign as a game changer for Birmingham promoting mental health, and she received the Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce Small Business Award for 2020.