As a counselor, my goal is to provide a space where your story is listened to without judgment; where you are met with lots of compassion as you share the more challenging parts of your life. I believe therapy offers a place to work towards moving towards the things that matter most to us, despite the hardships we face. My therapeutic approach is unique to each person as I want to be flexible enough to fit the individual needs you bring to the counseling session. With that being said I find myself using a Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy approach most often. Faith based counseling can be incorporated if so desired.

I am a Des Moines native, and I recently moved back to Des Moines after being away at college for 5+ years. Some of my hobbies include baseball which I played in college for 5 years, as well as outdoor activities such as paddle boarding, hiking, walks, etc. I also am a big time Star Wars fan and have loved all of the shows that have come out lately. I love spending time with my friends and family as well.

My path to becoming a therapist is untraditional. I graduated with my undergrad in exercise science thinking I was hoping to coach college baseball as a career. But as I worked through my own difficulties with mental health through therapy, I realized this is something I want to do with my life. So, fall of 2020 I joined Upper Iowa University’s counseling program and graduated in August 2023.

I see clients in a West Des Moines office or via zoom, and I see clients of lots of different ages. Please reach out to me at chrisharsh.newlife@gmail.com with any questions.