About Me
My Own Transformative Experiences In Therapy Inspired Me To Become A Therapist
Years ago, I began my own journey in therapy. I tried working with a few different therapists and saw moderate results, but when I was fortunate enough to connect with a therapist who made me feel truly valuable and worthy, I witnessed a transformation in my own life.
For the first time, I understood what it was like to be unconditionally seen and understood for who I was. Because of her seemingly endless patience and support, I became more peaceful, accepting, and open as a person.
Throughout my life, I’ve dealt with many of the same challenges that my clients face today. I navigated a difficult career transition, lost my home, and had to rebuild my life from the ground up. In therapy, I had to process my childhood trauma that stemmed from growing up in a loving yet dysfunctional environment. I have struggled with relationships and have been my own harshest critic and biggest obstacle. I have great empathy for my clients, and I know that it is possible to overcome these barriers and create a life in which you can thrive as your authentic self.
My Education And Professional Background
I completed my bachelor’s degree in journalism and communications at Rutgers University, and after graduating, I pursued an intensive career in the entertainment field. I became an accomplished communications executive, but eventually, I realized that my values had evolved and I was no longer passionate about pursuing this corporate path.
Encouraged by my own time in therapy, I decided to switch careers and devote myself to helping others as a therapist so that I could pass on the gift that I was given. I received my Master’s in Counseling from Phillips Graduate University, and today, I work with clients through my own practice in Los Angeles, CA. After beginning my work as a therapist, I became certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and gained further training in Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotionally-Focused Couples Therapy (EFT), Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, and the Gottman Method. I am passionate about learning and continue to pursue opportunities to broaden my knowledge and skill set.
My Approach To Therapy
I emphasize certain specialties in my practice, including ADHD, anxiety, and depression. In addition to guiding individuals in therapy, I draw from my experience as a former communications executive to support couples. The art of effective communication is one of my personal strengths and lifelong passions. I often pull from CBT, psychodynamic and relational therapy, IFS, and ACT, as well as the Gottman Method for couples. But overall, I believe there can be multiple paths to healing, and I support whichever techniques seem to best resonate with an individual or couple. There is no “right” or “wrong” way of being in the world, and I am open-minded about what approach may help my clients.
I apply a culturally sensitive, trauma-informed approach to counseling. I have also worked extensively with individual neurodiverse clients, as well as couples seeking guidance on managing neurodiversity within their relationship. Additionally, I am an LGBTQIA+-friendly therapist with a sex-and kink-positive perspective, and I have guided many individuals and couples who are interested in engaging in or exploring alternative lifestyles and relationships, such as polyamory or ethical non-monogamy (ENM).
The Principles That Shape My Practice
Research has shown that positive outcomes associated with therapy are primarily a result of the relationship between the therapist and client, no matter the therapeutic techniques used or the therapist’s theoretical orientation (1). Therefore, I prioritize cultivating a human connection with my clients. I let my curiosity guide me when it comes to learning more about my clients and the issues they struggle with, and I am always seeking new insights that I can apply in my practice.
I go the extra mile to ensure that my clients feel comfortable during their sessions. I have always gravitated towards the unconventional, granting me a somewhat unique perspective on life. When appropriate, I will share stories and insights from my own experiences that may be valuable to my clients.
Outside of my professional life, I’m passionate about travel—so far, I’ve visited five continents, and I hope to visit all seven. I have several rescue dogs, and I’ve previously fostered dogs as well. I am passionate about music, and enjoy botanical photography, puzzles, and crafts like pottery, crochet, and sewing. I deeply value my relationships with my friends and consider them my chosen family. I also volunteer at the local library and have connected with a low-fee counseling center to start providing pro-bono clinical supervision services.
How I Work With Clients
In therapy, I aim to help you honor your unique needs, prioritize your mental and emotional wellbeing, and let your authentic self shine through. If you’re interested in starting therapy, I invite you to browse my website or book a free consultation to learn more about my practice. Whether you’re struggling with symptoms of ADHD, depression, anxiety, or years of little “t” trauma, or you want to repair and strengthen a romantic relationship, I know that through therapy, healing and growth are within your reach.
Dana Harris is a licensed therapist based in Los Angeles, CA. She earned her Bachelor’s in Journalism and Communications from Rutgers University and worked as an entertainment executive before receiving her Master’s in Counseling from Phillips Graduate University. Dana is certified in Trauma-Focused (TF) CBT, and she has received training in Internal Family Systems, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Emotionally-Focused Couples Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction. She is currently pursuing training in the Gottman Method. She specializes in several areas, including treating adult ADHD, anxiety, depression, and little “t” trauma.