Dr. Shemkia Harris

I am a licensed clinical social worker with a doctorate degree in social work. I’ve worked for many years in child welfare, behavior health, helping families, youth, young adults, and professionals to address trauma, mental health needs and overall wellbeing. I understand how overwhelming life can feel when systems, relationships, or emotions are complicated. In therapy, clients can expect me to be structured, compassionate, collaborative, and focused on helping them build practical skills that support long-term wellbeing.

My therapeutic approach is strength‐based, meaning I help clients recognize and build on the abilities and resilience they already possess. I use solution‐focused strategies to identify goals, highlight progress, and create practical steps toward change. I also incorporate cognitive behavioral techniques to help clients understand how their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors connect, and to develop healthier patterns that support their wellbeing.

In the first session, I focus on creating a safe space where clients feel comfortable in engaging in conversation focused on understanding their concerns, strengths, and goals. We’ll talk about what brought them to therapy, what they hope to change, and any patterns in thoughts or behaviors that may be affecting their wellbeing. By the end, we’ll have a shared direction and a plan for how we’ll move forward together.