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Heather Harper, LCSW Clinical Director & Owner
Fluent in American Sign Language (ASL) Hi, I'm Heather!
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me and the practice. I believe that every individual, regardless of their circumstances, has inherent strengths, resilience, and a deep desire for personal growth. Recognizing that each person’s journey is unique, I tailor my approach to meet your specific needs. I draw from a range of therapeutic techniques, including play therapy, sand tray, somatic and body-based practices, as well as Polyvagal Theory, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and EMDR. These modalities, when combined with a strong focus on connection and trust, allow us to explore your challenges in a way that feels safe, empowering, and deeply personal.
In our work together, my priority is to create a warm, non-judgmental space where you can feel truly supported as you navigate life’s challenges. I believe that healing happens most effectively within the context of a compassionate relationship, where both vulnerability and strength are honored. My goal is not just to provide insight and skills, but to help you develop a deeper connection to yourself—your emotions, body, and inner wisdom. I am here to walk alongside you, offering guidance and support, as we work together toward transformation and growth. Over the course of my career, I’ve gained experience in a variety of settings, including schools, inpatient and outpatient facilities, home-based care, emergency services, respite care, and community mental health. My areas of expertise include family systems and conflict resolution, school-based issues, special education, behavioral management, parenting, trauma, substance abuse, and couples therapy. I am deeply committed to collaboration—working with both clients and community resources to foster meaningful change and positive outcomes for individuals and families. In addition to my clinical work, I also offer supervision for individuals pursuing their Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) credentials in the Commonwealth of Virginia. I am passionate about supporting new clinicians as they navigate the complexities of the profession, offering guidance, insight, and encouragement as they work toward meeting the requirements for licensure. My approach to supervision is collaborative, reflective, and designed to help you build confidence, strengthen your clinical skills, and deepen your understanding of the therapeutic process. I am committed to fostering a safe, supportive environment for supervisees, ensuring they feel prepared to provide compassionate and effective care to their clients. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you.
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Private Practice:
Harper Therapy Group (2020 to Present) Clinical Director & Owner Fairfax, Virginia Transitions Counseling Services, LLC (2018 – 2020) Therapist Warrenton, Virginia Certifications & Speciality Areas: EMDR DBT Polyvagal Internal Family Systems ACT Sand Tray Play Therapy |
Clinical Experience:
Fairfax County Gov (2019-2022) Crisis Intervention Specialist Merrifield, Virginia Fairfax County Gov (2017 to 2019) Behavioral Health Therapist Fairfax, Virginia Fairfax County Schools (2012 - 2017) Social Worker Sheppard Pratt (2012-2012) Inpatient Social Worker DC Rape Crisis Center (2011 - 2012) MSW Intern Child Protective Services (2010-2011) BSW Intern Access Services (2006-2010) Respite Coordinator & Camp Director Focus: Children with disabilities |
Teaching and Training:
George Mason University (2017 - present) Adjunct Professor Fairfax, Virginia Education: George Mason University Bachelors of Social Work University of Maryland Masters of Social Work Languages: Fluent in American Sign Language (ASL) |