Ashton Johns, CTRS, has been with KVC Missouri since August 2021 and currently serves as Director of Residential Treatment Services. Over the past four years, she has grown within the organization, beginning as a Recreation Therapist at KVC Niles and advancing through roles as Expressive Program Manager and Associate Director of Operations.

A Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS), Ashton leads with a deep commitment to creating safe, supportive environments where youth and team members can thrive. Drawing on training in trauma-informed care, crisis management and evidence-based practices, including Motivational Interviewing (MI), Strengthening Families Program (SFP) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), she approaches leadership with empathy, collaboration and a strong focus on staff development. Her leadership centers on building trusting teams that deliver consistent, high-quality care to youth and families.

Ashton holds an undergraduate degree in Health and Human Performance with a minor in Psychology, as well as a Master’s degree in Recreation Therapy. Her experience in both outpatient and inpatient brain injury settings provides a well-rounded perspective that informs her leadership in residential treatment. In addition, she serves as a trainer in Safety Crisis Management (SCM) and Residential Child and Youth Care Professional (RCYCP) programming.

Outside of work, Ashton enjoys spending time with family and staying active through pickleball, park walks and game nights. Naturally competitive, Ashton is always up for wholesome competition, from the basketball court to a BINGO hall or a neighborhood game night.

“KVC allows me to do what I do best every day. Whether it’s engaging in positive leisure experiences with clients, creating strategic plans with staff, or simply connecting with the kiddos and employees, I am grateful for the work we get to do daily. I choose to work at KVC because I have experienced the way this organization cares deeply about its clients and employees and emphasizes the transformative power of positive connection.”