ABOUT Compass
COMPASS is a Miami-based, private counseling center specializing in Adolescents, Young Adults and their families. The foundations of the practice are optimism about our capacity for positive change, free choice and a commitment to doing what works.
Just as there is no single journey, there is no single counseling approach that is best for everyone. In respectful collaboration, we will figure out what you would like to be different and the best way to accomplish those changes.
What is my approach to therapy?
I focus on your strengths, abilities and interests; while building skills where there are deficits. I have confidence in your innate wisdom and your ability to create the life you want.
We will work holistically with your emotions, thoughts, behavior, body and spirit in the context of your environment.
Our Dialectical Behavior Therapy program is an option if you are struggling with problems in multiple areas of your life. Our 25-week program aims to help you create your best life providing weekly individual counseling, DBT skills training and phone coaching.
How is Compass Counseling different from the typical therapist office?
The option to combine traditional counseling with Adventure Therapy sets us apart.
We encourage adventures as a pathway to self-discovery.
I look for opportunities to integrate the most effective evidence-based treatment with nature/adventure therapy. Adventure therapy challenges us to move outside our comfort zone. Nature provides the context for discovering meaning, insight, peace and contentment.
Together we practice and build upon the skills learned in therapy.
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What is Dialectical Behavior Therapy?
The overarching goal of DBT is to assist you in creating the best version of your life.
A life that matches your values and goals. A life with more joy and less suffering.
Over two decades of research indicate that DBT is an effective treatment for multiple problems from generalized dissatisfaction in life to more severe problems such as self harm, chronic suicidality, depression, anxiety and impulsive behaviors (ex. substance abuse and disordered eating).
Dialectical Behavior Therapy draws upon the traditions of Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Philosophy, the Biosocial Theory and Eastern mindfulness practices. You can expect a DBT clinician to be validating and supportive yet challenging when needed. There is an emphasis on both accepting things as they are while acquiring the capabilities to make things better. The approach teaches skills in five main areas: Mindfulness, Walking the Middle Path, Emotion Regulation, Distress Tolerance and Interpersonal Effectiveness. DBT requires commitment and active participation during sessions AND out in the world.
Hello
My name is Miriam K. Harrison
I am a mother, wife, sister, daughter and friend; an amateur athlete, impromptu dancer, artist, yoga student and gritty adventurer who doesn’t give up when things are difficult. You can expect me to be irreverent, deeply caring and direct. I am a grounded, solid person who "practices what I preach." I see my role as a collaborator and guide. Together, as equals - we will use a pragmatic, "what works" approach to help you create your best life.
Over the span of several decades, I have worked in both Residential and Outpatient mental health care for children, adolescents and adults. I meet the highest standard of training currently possible as an Intensively Trained Dialectical Behavior Therapy practitioner. Additionally, I have advanced training and certification in Addictions and as a Qualified Supervisor for Mental Health Counseling interns.
TESTIMONIALS
