Cathy S Harris, LCSW

I am a trauma-informed therapist with over 25 years of experience providing individuals with practical tools, compassionate support, and new perspectives for healing. My professional journey began uniquely: at 40 years old, after spending 26 years in a high-control religious group, I attended college for the first time. Following my departure from the group, I pursued my passion for helping others and became a licensed therapist. Throughout my career, I have worked in diverse settings, including in-home therapy, civilian and military substance abuse programs, crisis centers, mobile crisis units, inpatient and outpatient hospital programs, and private practice. Across all these environments, I have consistently utilized a trauma-informed approach. Early in my career, I often encountered resistance from colleagues—particularly doctors and nurses—who were rooted in a symptom-focused, medical model. Advocating for a broader understanding of clients’ social histories and the impact of trauma was frequently challenging. However, in recent years, the importance of recognizing trauma and its connection to mental health has become more widely accepted, fostering meaningful dialogue in treatment settings. My book, So, What Happened to You?, explores the evolution of the trauma-informed model and shares my professional experiences promoting this approach. It also provides a toolkit to support readers on their healing journeys. My work continues to evolve, and I am now actively involved in the psychedelic healing space, offering individual and group services focused on preparation and integration for psychedelic experiences. While my years as a licensed therapist shape my current practice, I now adopt a coaching and counseling approach that prioritizes personal growth over diagnoses or symptom management. I provide professional education on cults, undue influence, and high-control groups. These dynamics are particularly relevant in the rapidly expanding psychedelic healing world, which can be vulnerable to exploitation. While most individuals in this field have good intentions, there is a risk of power dynamics leading to harm, often unintentionally. As the psychedelic space becomes more mainstream, the presence of underqualified individuals presenting themselves as experts is a growing concern. Awareness, self-reflection, and accountability are essential safeguards to ensure ethical and supportive practices in this field.