Hi my name is Diana Harman. My journey to becoming a mental health counselor began with a deep desire to help others and a fascination with the complexities of the human mind. Pursuing a master’s degree in mental health counseling allowed me to develop a solid foundation, which inspired me to further hone my clinical skills by pursuing a PhD in the same field. Alongside my studies, I gained hands-on experience working in both inpatient behavioral health units and clinical settings. Through these experiences, I learned the critical importance of a personalized approach, which has shaped my ability to create a safe, supportive environment where clients feel empowered to express themselves and foster personal growth.
In your first session with me, you can expect a warm and welcoming environment where you’re encouraged to share your story at your own pace. We’ll begin by discussing your goals for therapy, any challenges you’re facing, and the support you’re seeking. I’ll ask questions to understand your background and unique experiences, and we’ll work together to develop a plan that feels right for you. My goal is to ensure you feel heard, safe, and understood, while also introducing the approaches and tools I may use throughout our work together. By the end of the session, you’ll have a clearer sense of how we can move forward, with an emphasis on building a trusting and collaborative therapeutic relationship.
One of my greatest strengths as a therapist is my ability to create a safe, supportive space where clients feel heard and understood. I take a person-centered, trauma-informed approach, allowing clients to explore their thoughts and emotions at their own pace. My ability to build trust and rapport helps clients feel comfortable in sharing their most vulnerable parts, which fosters growth and healing. Additionally, I bring a deep commitment to continuous learning, staying informed on the latest evidence-based practices, and incorporating a range of therapeutic techniques to meet each client’s unique needs. My compassionate and empathetic nature enables me to connect with clients and guide them on their journey toward self-discovery and lasting change.
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients better understand the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. This evidence-based approach is highly effective for a range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, and stress. In sessions, we work together to identify unhelpful thought patterns and develop practical strategies to reframe them. My goal is to empower you with tools to navigate life’s challenges, break free from negative cycles, and approach situations with greater clarity and confidence.
I’m trained in the Attachment, Regulation, and Competency (ARC) framework, which informs my work with children and families navigating trauma. This approach emphasizes strengthening caregiver-child relationships, building emotional regulation skills, and fostering resilience. I also integrate principles of Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP), an evidence-based treatment for young children and their caregivers. CPP focuses on improving attachment and helping families process difficult experiences together in a safe, supportive environment. My goal is to empower families to heal, grow, and strengthen their bonds by creating a space where both caregivers and children feel seen, understood, and equipped to move forward.
I was recently trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), a powerful, evidence-based approach for treating trauma. EMDR helps process distressing memories by using bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements, to reduce their emotional intensity and impact. My approach is client-centered and trauma-informed, ensuring you feel safe and supported as we work together to process past experiences and promote healing. EMDR is especially effective for those feeling stuck in their trauma, and I’m excited to integrate this method into my practice to help clients move forward with greater clarity and resilience.
In my practice, I use Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) to help individuals with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). ERP involves gradually exposing clients to their triggers while helping them resist the urge to engage in compulsive behaviors. This reduces anxiety over time and breaks the OCD cycle. My approach is collaborative and paced to your comfort level, focusing on building skills like mindfulness and distress tolerance to face fears with confidence. The goal is to not just manage symptoms but reclaim your time and peace of mind.
My practice takes an eclectic approach, meaning I tailor therapy to meet the unique needs of each individual. I integrate evidence-based methods like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), EMDR, motivational interviewing, and play therapy for children and teens. I also draw from somatic, humanistic, Gestalt, and person-centered approaches to ensure a holistic, personalized experience. This flexibility allows me to address a wide range of challenges, including trauma, anxiety, OCD, and relationship issues. By combining techniques that focus on thoughts, emotions, physical sensations, and creative expression, I aim to provide compassionate care that empowers you—or your child—to heal, grow, and thrive.