Marlena Harris

I provide psychotherapy in a supportive, nonjudgmental space for adults ages 18 and older navigating a range of life challenges, including stress, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, job changes, layoffs, postpartum adjustment, emotional overwhelm, relationship concerns, self-esteem concerns, burnout, and challenges related to aging or later-life transitions. I also support young adults and adults who may feel stuck, disconnected from routine, uncertain about their next steps, or managing family, work, health-related, or cultural stressors.

I draw from evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), strengths-based interventions, and supportive therapy. Therapy is a collaborative process focused on adjustment support, practical coping, emotional functioning, goal setting, supporting healthy daily routines, developing healthier thought patterns that support emotional wellness and self-confidence, and supporting emotional regulation. I also recognize that life experiences, relationships, and broader systems can shape emotional health, and I work with clients to identify meaningful strategies that fit their lives and personal goals. I believe each person brings valuable insight into their own life experiences, and therapy provides a supportive space for reflection, active listening, and collaborative growth.

My therapeutic approach is collaborative, strengths-based, and tailored to each client’s individual needs and goals. I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, supportive therapy, client-centered approaches, goal-oriented strategies, and motivational interviewing techniques to help clients better understand their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors while building on their existing strengths and resilience.

I may incorporate practical interventions such as supporting emotional regulation, developing healthier thought patterns, behavioral activation, problem-solving, routine-building, mindfulness-based strategies, breathing exercises, and increasing self-awareness during life transitions, grief, stress, work-related challenges, and other everyday concerns. As a social worker, I also recognize that life experiences, relationships, and broader systems can influence emotional well-being, and I work with clients to identify meaningful strategies that support emotional well-being, confidence, and personal growth.

During the first session, clients can expect a welcoming and supportive conversation focused on understanding what brought them to therapy and what they hope to gain from the experience. We will spend time discussing the concerns or challenges that led you to seek support, as well as any background information that is helpful in understanding your current concerns.

My approach is to begin the work right away by collaborating on goals for therapy and identifying areas where you would like to see growth or change. We will also discuss strategies or strengths that may already be helping you manage challenges, because I believe it is important to understand what has been working so we can build from there while exploring additional tools, perspectives, or strategies that may support your goals and overall well-being.

My role is to listen carefully, ask thoughtful questions, and provide support, encouragement, and guidance as we begin developing a plan that aligns with your needs. As part of the initial session, I also gather important information to support safe, appropriate, and individualized care, and we may discuss scheduling needs and next steps for continued sessions. I work to meet clients where they are and move at a pace that supports their individual needs and readiness. My aim is to help clients begin the process feeling supported, encouraged, and with a clearer sense of direction for the work ahead.