Today we’d like to introduce you to Floyd Harrison.
Hi Floyd, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Born in Oakland and raised throughout Northern California and the Bay Area, Floyd E. Harrison Jr.’s story is shaped by family, movement, and a foundation of deep faith. His childhood was defined by the warmth of annual family gatherings, peaceful fishing trips, camping adventures, and memorable days spent at Lake Tahoe — experiences that cultivated his appreciation for community, nature, and togetherness.
A central influence throughout his upbringing was his grandmother, whose guidance and steady presence helped shape his values. Family and faith became the core pillars of his identity, supported by creative and personal outlets such as basketball, beatmaking, and dedicated Bible study.
Harrison’s life took a transformative turn when he moved to Waco, Texas to attend Baylor University. There, he completed his undergraduate studies from 1997 to 2003, returning shortly after to pursue graduate work from 2004 to 2007. He ultimately earned an Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree, solidifying his commitment to the field of psychology and educational support. By 2009, he had become a fully licensed school psychologist.
From 2017 to 2022, Harrison served as Program Director for The Harris Center for Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities and Mental Health, where he oversaw critical programs and expanded services for individuals across the region. In 2022, his leadership extended into community advocacy through his role as a board member for The Arc of Greater Houston.
That same year, Harrison launched Ben Elyon, an organization built on his long-standing values: faith, excellence, empowerment, and service. Through this venture, he seeks to elevate psychological support, empower families, and broaden access to compassionate and culturally grounded care.
Above all, Harrison is a devoted father of four, drawing daily motivation from the desire to provide for his family and uplift others. His trajectory reflects a life guided by purpose — shaped by Northern California roots, refined by Baylor education, strengthened through service, and continually inspired by faith.
Today, Floyd E. Harrison Jr. stands as a leader committed to making a meaningful impact. His journey embodies resilience, integrity, and the belief that helping others is not simply a profession, but a calling.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t always been a smooth road, but I’m grateful that Yahuah has carried me through in Jesus’ name. My mother was incarcerated for several of my formative years — from about age 10 to 16 — and my father wasn’t involved, so there were challenges early on that I had to navigate without the typical support system.
At the same time, I know many people have had it much harder, so I try to keep my experiences in perspective. The ups and downs, the twists and turns — all of it has shaped my outlook and helped me grow. Looking back, I’m thankful for the journey because it taught me resilience and grounded me in what truly matters.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
My work centers on serving individuals and families who are navigating developmental, intellectual, behavioral, or mental-health differences. As a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology and the owner of Ben Elyon Assessment & Support Services, I specialize in comprehensive psychological and educational evaluations that help students and families gain clarity, direction, and access to the support they need. I conduct both initial and re-evaluations—locally and virtually—for children suspected of having learning disabilities, intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, emotional or behavioral disturbances, or other TEA-defined exceptionalities.
In addition to private practice, I also direct and coach in Higher Hoops, a developmentally inclusive basketball program that brings together my passion for youth development and my commitment to creating safe, encouraging spaces for all children. Whether in an evaluation session or on the court, my goal is always to meet each person where they are and help them grow confidently.
Throughout my career, I’ve also served as a Certified DID Provider for multiple behavioral health centers and previously held the role of Program Director at The Harris Center for MH & IDD. There, I supervised a team of 32, developed clinical procedures, transformed units into revenue-building programs, managed budgets, and helped shape countywide standards for IDD eligibility evaluations. These experiences strengthened my commitment to high-quality, ethical, and accessible care.
What I’m most proud of is the consistent feedback I receive from the families I serve. Parents often describe my evaluations as thorough, clear, and genuinely helpful. One parent, unsure about a school-issued diagnosis, shared that I came to their home, evaluated their son, and then sat down with both of them to explain the findings in a way that restored trust and confidence in the process. Another parent highlighted the patience, communication, and individualized support I bring to Higher Hoops, noting how meaningful it’s been to see her son active, supported, and encouraged—regardless of his athletic ability. Families also describe my reports as the first time they’ve had a clear understanding of their child’s needs after years of confusion.
Clients repeatedly mention how much they value feeling seen, heard, and respected. Whether it’s a teenager seeking clarity, a parent wanting answers, or an adult trying to understand their own challenges, I work hard to make the process calm, transparent, and empowering.
What sets me apart is that combination of clinical competence and human connection. I don’t rush assessments. I don’t talk over people. I don’t hand families a diagnosis and disappear. I take time—time to listen, time to explain, time to ensure families feel supported and confident moving forward. My approach is thorough but compassionate, structured but personal. And, above all, I try to treat every client with the same respect and dignity I would want for my own children.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
The variety of cultures, restaurants, and scenery. Access to fresh and saltwater fishing.
Pricing:
- We accept BCBSTX and Curative
- We are working on accepting Medicaid and Medicare
- We offer payment plans for private payers
- We offer a sliding scale
Contact Info:
- Website: https://benelyon.org
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090866967753
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/105350994/admin/dashboard/
