Najila Harris

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor with a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from DePaul University. I work with adolescents, emerging adults, adults, and couples navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, eating and body-image concerns, borderline personality disorder, relationship difficulties, identity exploration, and major life transitions. My experience includes residential eating-disorder treatment, community mental health, and individual, family, and couples therapy. I strive to provide an affirming, nonjudgmental space where clients from diverse backgrounds and identities feel safe, understood, and supported.

My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to your individual needs, values, and goals. I draw from cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, mindfulness, and other evidence-based practices to help you better understand your patterns, manage difficult emotions, and develop practical coping skills. I believe therapy should balance compassion and validation with gentle challenges that support meaningful growth. Together, we will build on your strengths and work toward changes that feel realistic and sustainable.

During our first session, we will take time to discuss what brings you to therapy, what you have been experiencing, and what you hope to gain from our work together. I will ask questions about your history, current concerns, relationships, strengths, and support system while allowing you to share at a pace that feels comfortable. We will begin identifying your goals and discussing a treatment approach that fits your needs. My priority is to help you feel heard and respected while creating a foundation for a trusting therapeutic relationship.