My name is Jennifer Harmon. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, providing telehealth services in Utah and California. I approach therapy as a partnership in which you are the expert in your own life and I am a support to help you reach your goals and optimum health. I believe that there is no "one size fits all" when it comes to therapy, so using different modalities, I approach therapy based on the unique needs of the individual, family, or couple.
My approach
My approach to therapy varies based on the unique needs of the client. Most often I use cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy. I, also, love incorporating writing, art, and music in my treatment approaches. All of these modalities and approaches are chosen as a means for the client to feel comfortable and respected while addressing current life stressors.
My focus
I have had the opportunity of working with many different clients, in many different settings. My approach and experience began with the treatment of addiction and sexual issues. More recently, I have worked primarily with couples, all of whom have a unique reason for seeking therapy and have unique goals that they'd like to reach. I, also, have had extensive experience in working with adolescents and adults struggling with life stressors, as well as with mood disorders including depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
My communication style
I pride myself in approaching communication, with clients, in a friendly, honest, and goal-oriented way. My hope is for every client to feel that they can be honest and true to who they are when working with me. I share with each client that they are welcome (and should) address any problem areas in the therapeutic relationship and to ask when they need more information and understanding. I truly believe that we all are the experts in our own lives and so I strive to meet the client where they are at. As part of this, I seek to communicate in a style that the client can be most comfortable with. While being personable and caring, I am also honest and straightforward in addressing the goals and needs of the client. An important part of communication is listening and feel that I am able to be present and listen to what the client says in order to provide the best feedback and support.
My journey to mental healthcare
My journey to becoming a therapist began when I was a young teenager. During that time, I was a competitive athlete and sustained a career-ending injury. I struggled with the loss and with knowing how to process my emotions, so began therapy, myself. Through my own journey to healing, I learned that I had a great desire to help others to heal. I have learned throughout my life, that negative experiences, mistakes, losses, etc. can lead to learning and purpose. Sometimes, this is better reached in an environment where one can feel heard and understood, while not worrying about being judged. Through my own struggles and triumphs, I have better learned how to relate to, and help others. I have grown to have a deep appreciation for the resiliency of all humans. Each day, I feel a deep gratitude for my clients, and for their willingness, to allow me to be a part of their journeys and a witness to their strength.
My goals for you
I believe that goals are very important. Many people, however, can be frustrated by goals, so I approach goal setting by educating clients on how to set themselves up for success when developing their goals. My typical approach is to assist clients in identifying their specific goals and then assist them in developing a plan, with smaller goals and more measured steps. By doing this, the individual is able to feel a sense of pride and continued motivation when reaching the small goals, that eventually add up to meeting their ultimate goals.
My first session with you
I believe the first session is a time to begin building a trusting, engaging, therapeutic relationship. I pride myself in my ability to meet my clients where they are at, which simply means, that they are the expert. During the first session, you can expect it to be what you want and need it to be. I have clients who just want to talk with the goal of getting to better know this therapist, while others are ready to jump in and begin addressing stressors. You can always expect to be treated with respect and to receive my appreciation for allowing me to be a part of your journey.