Janay Harden Psychotherapy, LCSW

Growing up, I was surrounded by strong and confident women who taught me to be the same. When I got older and unpacked my own traumas, I learned that while all these women were strong, most were struggling with their own insecurities and mental health concerns with no one who felt like a safe space to turn to. After I attended college, I wasn't sure exactly what I wanted to do, but I knew that it would be related to women’s empowerment and creating spaces where people felt heard and valued. My lived experiences have also contributed to my healing work, and I have worked in many difficult settings, including an HIV clinic, correctional facilities, hospitals, and child welfare. I had to learn on my feet and connect with people using basic, humanistic approaches and oftentimes, humor. My “why” is simple: I seek to create healing spaces for people to restore the best versions of themselves while knowing that they are supported the entire way. You are not alone.

I welcome clients of all backgrounds, nationalities, and genders, but my niche is within the BIPOC community. I am committed to healing and addressing systemic oppression and racism in our community. Together, we will examine long-held beliefs and the impact of racism in our society and how it relates to our self-esteem and mental health. I look forward to helping propel collective healing in society. I am a certified child and adolescent trauma specialist, an advanced care planning certified facilitator, and certified in the nurtured heart approach. I am the author of two fictional novels, Hey, Brown Girl and Forty-Two Minutes. I use writing as my form of self-care and I seek to help others find their personal form of self-care.

I believe that being able to bear witness to someone’s story and personal thoughts is an honor and truly humbling. I do not take it lightly and I strive to empower clients with the tools they need to examine their own behaviors. My approach is always client-centered and I engage in ongoing education yearly to improve my craft. I strive to be a competent and qualified human being and therapist. My approach with clients is not a one-size-fits-all model, and I try to meet each client where they are. I have personal interests in astrology, tarot, and energy healing, so we may whip out a deck of cards for clarity if you are interested.