Melissa Harper, LPC
(she/her)

Focuses:

  • Perinatal Anxiety & Depression

  • Fertility Support

  • Family Forming Journeys

  • Gender-Based Violence

  • Birth Trauma

  • Trauma (including Generational Trauma)

  • Transitioning to Motherhood

  • Life Transitions/ Stressors

States: Illinois

ABOUT ME

I am a licensed professional counselor and nationally certified counselor. I have provided intake services, crisis intervention, and ongoing therapy to individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, traumatic stress disorder, varying mood, personality, and behavioral disorders, life transitions, and interpersonal partner violence.  I have worked in a variety of settings helping my clients who are struggling to cope with life changes. My approach is diverse, based on my client’s personal and cultural needs, and driven by trauma-informed care and strength-based models. I use evidence-based treatment modalities, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused interventions, and family structural techniques. I bring these skills into my work with new moms and their families.

THERAPUETIC FOCUS: REPRODUCTIVE CHALLENGES, GENDER-BASED AND GENERATIONAL TRAUMA

My clinical interests include generational trauma, PTSD and intimate partner violence, women's health, fertility challenges, and motherhood. I specialize in supporting clients through reproductive journeys including infertility, pregnancy loss, postpartum adjustment, and family planning decisions. In addition, I enjoy working with clients who are struggling with daily life stressors. In order to do this work effectively, I strive to view clients holistically, taking into account cultural, religious, family, and relational structure considerations, including a deep understanding of Chicago cultures.

In this role, I work passionately to advocate for the needs of my female and maternal clients, especially women of color and other ethnically diverse clients. My approach is both trauma-informed and culturally responsive. I create a safe, non-judgmental space where all reproductive journeys and family-building paths are honored. Whether you're navigating IVF treatments, processing a miscarriage, struggling with postpartum depression, or making difficult decisions about your reproductive future, I offer compassionate guidance tailored to your unique situation.

I am particularly passionate about addressing disparities in reproductive healthcare and advocating for equitable access to both physical and mental health services. My practice welcomes clients of all backgrounds, gender identities, sexual orientations, and family structures. Together, we will create a safe and therapeutic environment to process emotions and thoughts. I will be your therapist and your support every step of the way as you successfully achieve goals, discover inner strength and empowerment, heal from trauma, and find meaning in your adversity.


I offer a free 15-minute phone consultation to see how I can help you.

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