Our team

We are very fortunate to have interns from LSU and VCU this academic year working towards their Masters in Social Work.

Scott Bishop, Class of 2025

Virginia Commonwealth University

Makayla Wise, Class of 2025

Louisiana State University

Joe Wiley, Class of 2026

Virginia Commonwealth University

Heather Harper, LCSW

​Founder of Harper Therapy Group

A little backstory

​Harper Therapy Group was established in 2021 as a solo practice. If anyone would have told me when I was in “social work school” that I would one day open a practice with other therapists, provide supervision for residents preparing for licensure, and having a commercial space to house it all, I would have laughed.

In opening a group practice I made a conscious decision to offer the space as a teaching practice.  What does that mean?  Social workers get a bachelors and then a masters which includes 2-3 internships in which they learn how to do the art of social work hands-on.  Students have interactive classes and labs in which they learn more in the classroom.  Having been an adjunct teacher at George Mason University, I value the teaching aspect of our work.  Social workers will be in a constant learning state as the governing boards require continuing education and as a professional, we should want to continue to challenge our learning process, develop new skills, and acquire multiple interventions in order to provide the best care for our clients.  As we all know, one size does not fit all.   With all of this in mind, I wanted devote part of the work we do inside of the practice to raise up clinicians who are trained with excellence, learning interventions that are evidence-based and have proven positive outcomes, and allow for space to have consultation and guidance. ​

Many of my clients know I will often say, “square peg, round hole” meaning if I feel that something is not fitting or I am forcing it, I will take the step back and walk away. I try to live and lead my life as an example of finding peace in our choices and decision making. With that being said, I am thankful each day that my path has led me to others on my team, partners in the community, and a place that provides a safe environment for individuals, couples, an  families to grow.

I am thankful daily for the opportunity to serve Fairfax County and all around the state and hope that anyone who comes for services feels they are treated with respect, kindness, and leave feeling they have gained skills, knowledge about themselves and others and can continue the path meant for them.