My name is Monique Harris, MA, LPC, LCDC. I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Texas and Michigan. I have 8 years experience serving children, adolescents, families, and veterans through individual or group therapy who are dealing with issues that affect their mental health and well-being. More specifically, addressing a variety of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, substance abuse, and personality disorders. My counseling philosophy includes Rational Emotive Behavior and Choice Reality Therapy, placing emphasis on reshaping core beliefs in those individuals experiencing a variety of mental health conditions, thereby empowering them to live full, satisfying lives free from unnecessary psychological distress. Also, introducing the concept of choice and functioning in the here and now (reality), helping them understand that they have a choice and the power to change, adjust or enhance whatever it is that they want to alter about themselves, their situation or circumstances. My counseling style is compassionate, empathic, non-judgemental, and genuine. My goal is to empower individuals to live an emotional resilient, relentless, renewed, and restored lifestyle. I am looking forward to working with you!

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

The use of client centered techniques to establish relationship and build rapport. I will utilized guided discussion to gather information to assess and identify the problem. I will also explain the counseling process and therapeutic relationship so that they will be able to make an informed decision about whether or not I'll be a good fit to meet their therapeutic needs.

What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) developed by Aaron Beck, making the connection between our thoughts, feelings and behaviors. Helping people recognize distortions in their thinking which creates problems, and then to reevaluate them in light of reality; and using problem-solving skills to cope with difficult situations. Thus, improving their self-confidence. Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT) developed by Albert Ellis, which is built on the idea that how we feel is largely influenced by how we think. As is implied by the name, this form of therapy encourages the development of rational thinking to facilitate healthy emotional expression and behavior. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) designed by Marsha Linehan, DBT is intended to help individuals who have difficulty regulating their emotions learn how to observe their thoughts and feelings; tolerate and function in a crisis or stressful situation; identify and process emotions; and deal with relational conflict in an effective manner. Choice Theory-Reality Therapy by William Glasser, theory posits that we as humans are born with five innate needs, this includes, survival, love or belonging, power or achievement, freedom and fun. Once these needs are compromised or negatively impacted, our behavior, actions and thoughts shift to reflect an effort to get back to the need(s) that were impacted.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

• Provide guidance to individuals, couples, and families who are dealing with issues that affect their mental health and well-being. • Teach clients problem-solving techniques, coping skills, decision-making, conflict-resolution, and anger management. • Address a variety of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, substance abuse, and personality disorders. • Specialize in substance abuse and relapse prevention. • Facilitate adolescent & adult psychoeducation groups

About Monique Harris