Meet Jess

Hello, my name is Jess Harris and I am a Masters-level intern! I am attending the Clinical Mental Health Program at Texas A&M University-Commerce, and I am set to graduate in December 2024. I became interested in psychology in 2016 thanks to experiencing my own healing after traumatic events and wanting to give the same sense of hope and healing to others who have endured trauma.

As I began my mental health education, I realized that much of my professional experience throughout my life has lent itself to the field of psychology. As a former nanny, I cultivated a deep understanding of child development and family dynamics, which laid the foundation for my journey into mental health counseling.

From a young age, I knew I wanted to work with children in some capacity. I began my journey of working with children in 2002 when I was in high school as a babysitter. While obtaining my bachelor’s degree from Texas Woman’s University, I became a nanny and fell in love with being able to build that connection with the children and their parents. I have worked with many children since my first family and have enjoyed the experience of connecting with each unique child on their level. In my time as a nanny, I have worked with a diverse population of children with a variety of mental and behavioral health issues. I have experience working with children with depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, oppositional defiant disorder, and dyslexia.

My professional mental health experience has been focused on children and adolescents who have experienced traumatic events. While interning at Hope’s Door New Beginning Center, part of my responsibilities as a child and adolescent counselor has been providing play therapy and activity therapy for children who have experienced domestic violence. I am also currently training in Adlerian Therapy to provide the best evidence-based care. Through this internship, I have had the opportunity to work with difficult and complex cases. This has reinforced my desire to work with children who have dealt with trauma in their lives.

As a therapist, I am passionate about helping individuals and families navigate life’s challenges with empathy and insight. 

My approach is warm yet analytical, drawing from my experience in both caregiving and clinical practice to create a supportive environment where growth and healing can flourish.

*This clinician is an independent contractor