Whitney Harper
Ph.D., LCSW · she/her/hers
Located at Strata, Garden of the Gods Resort
Best for young adults, adults, and couples navigating life transitions, relationship challenges, anxiety, depression, substance use, and feeling disconnected from themselves or others.
I strive to create a welcoming, supportive space where you can feel comfortable exploring whatever has brought you to therapy. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or depression, navigating relationship challenges, working through substance use concerns, or adjusting to a major life transition, we'll work together to better understand the patterns that may be keeping you stuck, strengthen your relationships, build effective coping skills, and create meaningful, lasting change.
My approach to therapy is supportive, collaborative, and appropriately challenging. I strive to create a space where you feel understood, respected, and empowered to explore the experiences that have shaped you. Together, we'll build the insight, skills, and confidence needed to navigate life's challenges—not just during therapy, but long after our work together.
I work with young adults, adults, and couples navigating anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship concerns, and life transitions. My approach integrates relational therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Motivational Interviewing to help clients better understand their thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and relationships. Because every person's story is different, I tailor therapy to your unique strengths, goals, and experiences while fostering resilience, meaningful growth, and lasting change.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a Ph.D. in Human Development and a Master of Social Work. With more than 20 years of experience in mental health and substance use treatment, I have received specialized training in CBT, Motivational Interviewing, trauma-informed care, and substance use disorders. In addition to my clinical work, I serve as a tenured faculty member in the Department of Social Work at Western Kentucky University, where I teach future social workers, conduct research on mental health outcomes, present at national conferences, and develop training programs for clinicians and healthcare professionals.
Outside of the therapy room, I believe in practicing the same balance and intentionality I encourage in my clients. I enjoy spending time outdoors, hiking, running, mountain biking, walking my dogs, caring for my horses, attending concerts, and making memories with family and friends. As an avid animal lover, I believe that nurturing meaningful relationships, embracing moments of joy, and creating balance are all important parts of living a fulfilling life.
