We were lucky to catch up with Kiva Harper recently and have shared our conversation below.

Kiva , appreciate you joining us today. Parents play a huge role in our development as youngsters and sometimes that impact follows us into adulthood and into our lives and careers. Looking back, what’s something you think you parents did right?

My parents are no longer with me. I am still reflecting on all of the things they did right, Many were not realized until after their deaths. Both of my parents came from humble beginnings. My dad used to say, “I’m not an educated man so I have to work hard.” He taught me to have a strong work ethic. I carry that with me now. He provided for our family and emphasized the importance of a good education. Bad grades or poor conduct in school were simply not tolerated. My mom taught me about love. Like most moms and daughters, we had a strained relationship at times but in her last year of life we grew very close and our relationship evolved to a new level. Her faith was very important to her and she loved the Lord. She taught me that. She also taught me how to love myself and to love others-even if it had to be from a distance. Between the two of them, I learned to serve others. I believe that is my purpose in life-to serve those who are hurting. I saw my parents deal with their own challenges and as a result I have a servant’s heart. Showing up for others in therapy, providing education about mental health and providing consultation to other helpers is my way of serving.

Kiva , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I always knew I wanted to help others but it took me a bit to find out how. It was during an internship that I realized I wanted to help people to heal their emotional pain. I was interning at the District Attorney’s Office in Dallas and as I worked with survivors of domestic abuse, I knew I wanted to help in a different way. I began grad school for social work shortly thereafter and it was obvious I had found my calling. The profession of social work aligns so well with my personal beliefs and values. Social workers respect the dignity and worth of all people and advocate for social justice. I recognize that people who have experienced trauma are hurting emotionally. As a survivor of trauma and mental health professional, I am passionate about providing safe places and tools to guide my clients on their healing journeys. It is my honor to serve.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

If you met me in 2014, I would’ve told you I was going to work at my current job until retirement. Stability is very important to me and my job offered that. Unfortunately, the environment was extremely toxic and there were many ethical issues that were causing harm to my clients. I spent a year trying to “fix it” by reporting the things I knew to the appropriate people. Nothing was done. I felt I had failed my clients. At that time, I was also dealing with my dad being ill. I made the decision to leave that position to protect my own emotional well being. I took a position at The University of Texas at Arlington in the School of Social Work as a faculty member and started my private psychotherapy practice. The two roles complement each other well. I have had no shortage of business in my practice. In fact, I have had to be very diligent about keeping my practice small. I believe every step directs us to our purpose and I feel I am living in my purpose now.

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?

The best source of new clients has been word of mouth. I have done very little marketing for my business. My clients come from other professionals and existing clients. The social work world is very small so I have tried to establish a good reputation and be kind to others. It’s such a small thing but it really makes a difference.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.kivaharper.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kivatharper/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KivaHarperLCSW
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kivaharper/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/KivaLcsw

Image Credits
Ronald Nance Guillermo de la Corte