In the world of mental health counseling, it takes a special kind of person to walk alongside others on their journey toward understanding, healing and self-discovery. Janice Horton, a Licensed Professional Counselor and the founder of Sunshine Mental Health Counseling Service in Shreveport, Louisiana, embodies this role with compassion, wisdom, and an unwavering dedication to her clients. With nearly two decades of experience, Horton has built a practice centered on empathy, understanding, and professional excellence.

Janice Horton’s passion for psychology began in high school, where she first took a psychology class that sparked her curiosity about the human mind and behavior. As she went deeper into the subject, she realized that understanding people and their unique experiences was more than just an academic pursuit it was a calling. “I became intrigued by the human mind—learning about people, how they operate, and how to help those around me,” Horton recalls. This early interest led her to pursue a career in counseling, ultimately guiding her to create a space where individuals could find support and healing.

At the core of Horton’s counseling philosophy is the person-centered approach, which prioritizes meeting clients where they are. She also integrates Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, a technique designed to help clients process and heal from trauma. “Trauma can keep us stagnated and prevent us from moving forward in life,” Horton explains. “Through EMDR, I help clients break free from those traumatic thoughts, enabling them to move toward healing.”

For Horton, being a counselor is more than just providing professional guidance it’s about being present, offering support, and helping individuals put the pieces of their lives together. “Everyone has a puzzle they are trying to solve,” she says. “I want to be one of the pieces that helps them figure it out.”

While counseling is a deeply rewarding profession, Horton acknowledges that it comes with its challenges. One of the biggest lessons she has learned over the years is understanding that not every counselor is the right fit for every client. “My goal is always for the client to receive the services they need,” she emphasizes. “If that means they find another counselor whose personality and approach align better with theirs, I fully support that. It’s not about me it’s about what’s best for them.”

She also recognizes the importance of staying informed and up to date in the ever-evolving field of mental health. Through continuous professional development, attending workshops, and being involved in local organizations, Horton ensures she is always equipped with the latest knowledge and resources to best serve her clients.

Janice Horton is a passionate advocate for mental health awareness, particularly within the African American community. She notes that, historically, mental health issues were often dismissed or misunderstood, with individuals being labeled as simply "crazy" or "sad" rather than recognizing conditions like depression, anxiety, or PTSD.However, she has seen a shift in recent years, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic, as more people have begun acknowledging and addressing mental health concerns.“I did a presentation titled ‘Let’s Pray About It—We Need More Than Prayer,’” she shares. “I am a firm believer in God and prayer, but I also believe in the importance of mental health awareness, proper terminology, coping skills, and resources to help individuals navigate their struggles.”

As Horton approaches the 20th anniversary of Sunshine Mental Health Counseling Service, she reflects on the impact she has made and the work still to be done. In addition to counseling, she is also a supervisor for provisional licensed professional counselor (PLPC) ensuring the next generation of mental health professionals is well-equipped to make a difference.

Beyond her professional life, Horton is a dedicated musician at two local churches, a devoted family member, and an enthusiastic traveler. She embodies the very essence of her counseling practice bringing light, warmth, and energy to those around her. “When you think about the sun, you think about life, energy, and hope,” she says. “That’s what I strive to bring to my clients every single day.”

For those seeking a compassionate and experienced counselor, Janice Horton and Sunshine Mental Health Counseling Service, LLC stand as a beacon of hope and support. Located in Shreveport, Louisiana, she continues to uplift individuals and families, helping them find their way toward healing and wholeness through her motto “Here to provide a better day for a brighter future”