Emily Horton

Emily Horton, Ph.D., serves as an Assistant Professor of Counseling in the College of Education at the University of Houston-Clear Lake, a position she assumed in fall 2022. A Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist, Dr. Horton specializes in therapeutic interventions for children and adolescents, drawing from extensive clinical experience in residential treatment, private practice, non-profits, and university counseling centers.

Her academic credentials include:

• Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from the University of Texas at San Antonio
• Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from West Virginia University

Dr. Horton's research program centers on two primary strands: (1) the integration of creativity in counseling and counselor education, exemplified by her work on role-play simulations for trauma training and family counseling; and (2) evidence-based approaches for child and adolescent populations, with a specialty in play therapy. She actively disseminates findings through peer-reviewed publications and international/national conference presentations.

Analysis of Dr. Horton's recent publications (2020-2022) reveals consistent focus on experiential learning in counselor preparation. Key themes include adaptation of role-play methods during the COVID-19 pandemic, developmental considerations in family counseling training, and service-learning impacts on advocacy competencies. Her scholarship bridges creative clinical techniques with rigorous educational frameworks.

Dr. Horton has held significant clinical roles including director of a 16-bed residential eating disorder treatment center for adolescents. While specific advising or grant activities aren't detailed, her background indicates strong mentorship potential for graduate counseling students.