Our Story
Erin Cooper, MAP-C, CLT, CLI
Clinical Trainer/Owner
Hi! My name is Erin Cooper. I'm an experienced medical aesthetician, laser technician, and clinical trainer. I'm also the founder of Med-Surg Aesthetics and Laser Academy. I started Med-Surg Aesthetics and Laser Academy as an intensive hybrid (online/in-person) educational program for licensed aestheticians wishing to obtain laser certification and learn specialized skills specific to medical and surgical environments.
When I began my career as an aesthetician 27 years ago, our professional scope and earning potential were very limited. The only options for those of us who wanted to work in the medical space were to have an "in" through personal connections, "pay our dues" for years until we were experienced enough, or hope to be in the "right place at the right time." That left many of us feeling deflated, ultimately leading to numerous talented individuals quitting the industry despite their potential.
I loved aesthetics, but in search of a more fulfilling role within my career, I enrolled in nursing school. The problem was, I didn't want to be a nurse. After my first year, I quickly realized that I was on the wrong path. During that time, medical aesthetics and cosmetic lasers started to become more mainstream, and that's where I found my place!
I've been determined to change how we navigate our career paths and educate ourselves to grow as professionals for many years, and in March 2019, I began doing just that! When Covid-19 began ravaging the nation, I decided to take my future into my own hands. I started creating curriculum that would fast-track aestheticians and medical professionals into the medical aesthetics industry by providing targeted education.
With the continual introduction of new technologies, cosmetic devices, and treatment protocols, a basic aesthetics education is no longer adequate for work in most medical environments. Med-Surg Aesthetics and Laser Academy will prepare providers to work alongside physicians and surgeons so that we can support and enhance their practices.
Utilizing my education and extensive experience as a spa aesthetician, medical aesthetician, oncology aesthetician, laser technician, and clinical trainer, I'm bridging the educational gap so that talented, qualified professionals can now enjoy a rewarding career in medical aesthetics. I believe that education is paramount to continued success in our industry, and I'm committed to providing the most current and innovative treatment information available!
LESLIE JOHNSON, FNP-C
Medical Director
Leslie moved to the Arizona Valley in 1995 from Kansas to begin her medical career as a Registered Nurse. She worked as a nurse in the ICU and Emergency department for years before she decided to return to get her advanced practice degree as a Family Nurse Practitioner. She's spent over 20 years dedicating her career to being a patient advocate and helping others.
Leslie is a certified injector, specializing in medical aesthetics. She continuously educates herself to provide the most in this growing industry. Leslie’s driven passion has been to tailor treatments with integrity, safety, and efficacy. Achieving safe, natural and beautiful results while always adhering to best practices and standards of care.
“My desire has always been to help others live their best life. Throughout my career, treating patients of all ages and walks of life, has shown me that it is not all that you can see on the outside, but what the story is on the inside. Feeling good on the inside and looking your best on the outside is what ageless beauty is about. I strive to give my clients safe, natural and beautiful results while always adhering to best practices and standards of care."
Our Facilities
