Hi! I'm Christina Harner, a licensed marriage and family therapist. I'm also an active-duty military spouse and a veteran myself. believe therapy works for those who want to make change. I have worked extensively with couples dealing with domestic violence, cultural concerns, work-life balance, and military communities.
My approach
I believe that what we think leads to how we feel. And, how we feel leads to how we react. Utilizing the rationale emotive behavioral approach, I can help with shaping healthier mindsets that lead to healthier feelings and reactions.
My focus
I typically work with adults (over 18) who experience anxiety, depression, and stress due to relationship issues, work-life balance (or lack of), and family issues. As a parent (and one of 9 siblings) I relate well to the complex dynamics of merging family life and work life.
My communication style
I love to listen! I describe my therapy as sort of like looking into a mirror where I listen and then help you see yourself, understand your dilemmas, and then help you "clear the fog" keeps you from your goals.
My journey to mental healthcare
I became a marriage and family therapist because I come from a large family and always had support. As an active-duty military spouse, I was removed from that support system. Then, I met a mental health professional who inspired me to dream big and set my own goals for success. Since then, I have deployed twice, moved more times than I care to count, and have worked with populations such as foster care children, couples with domestic violence, coming-of-age university students, children of immigrants, and more. We all need a little support sometimes.
My goals for you
It's totally collaborative. Therapy won't work unless it's something that you want. I don't set your goals. You do.
My first session with you
I do more talking than usual during the first session. I lead by gathering background info and helping us get to know each other. We will likely end with you stating your goals for therapy and me helping you clearly define what that will look like.