Today we’d like to introduce you to Kiva Harper.
Hi Kiva, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Currently, I am doing more consulting, training, and speaking but I am probably best known for my work as a trauma-focused therapist. In undergrad, I was studying Criminal Justice. I did an internship at the District Attorney’s Office in the Family Violence Unit. My role was to take affidavits for protective orders. It was during that time I learned I wanted to be a therapist. I wanted to help these amazing survivors but in a different way. I worked for a couple of years and then started grad school to be a social worker. After I completed my Master’s of Science in Social Work, I had to do two years of supervised clinical work in order to test for an advanced license. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 2008. I’ve worked with a variety of populations but I decided to specialize in trauma and traumatic grief. I’ve done psychotherapy with survivors of trauma for the past fifteen years. While therapy is still a percentage of my practice, I’ve begun to focus more on training other professionals, consulting, and speaking about trauma.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Honestly, I’ve been afforded some great opportunities and have had some amazing mentors. I’m sure there have been some struggles but the challenges my clients face present the greatest challenge. I see so many people living in poverty, experiencing homelessness, not having access to healthcare, and not having basic needs met. That is difficult for me because I see systemic racism and capitalism affecting marginalized populations on a daily basis. Trying to help a client process with trauma when their basic needs aren’t met is impossible. In order to affect change, we must dismantle the current systems and rebuild.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Harper Counseling and Consulting Services, PLLC?
Harper Counseling & Consulting is a trauma-focused psychotherapy practice primarily focused on raising awareness and understanding about trauma through consulting, writing, and public speaking. With more than two decades in the field and a number of specialization certificates, our practice has become well known and well respected for our expertise. The aspect of our practice I find most exciting is our decolonization work. We’ve been on a journey to decolonize our practice by being more inclusive and learning more about ways our community has healed traditionally. We provide a holistic experience for all we serve. We are extremely excited about the speaking engagements and special projects we have in store for 2022. In fact, stay tuned for more information about an upcoming book release later this year!
I think what sets me apart from other therapists is my ability to engage people others might find difficult. I am really good at separating people from their behaviors. This allows me to hold space for others with no judgment and to really listen to what they have to say. I am also able to hear horrendous stories of abuse, neglect, and other traumatic events.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
My favorite childhood memories involve my Uncle Melvin. Uncle Melvin was my mother’s youngest brother and only nine years older than me. I loved him dearly. He was my sounding board for advice, my go-to for motivation, and the person I most looked up to. Our bond was super special. We talked often and confided in each other as I grew into adulthood. Unfortunately, he’s no longer with us. I often wonder what our relationship would be like now.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.kivaharper.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kivatharper/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KivaHarperLCSW
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/KivaLcsw
