Harshita Desai, Psy.D.

Dr. Desai is a licensed clinical psychologist (PSY29100) specializing in evidence-based therapy and assessment for children, adolescents, and families. She has extensive experience working with children and teens who struggle with anxiety (e.g., social, academic, generalized); depression; disruptive behaviors; ADHD; OCD; family stressors; and body image issues, among other conditions. Dr. Desai believes that treatment of children and teens is most effective with the inclusion of caregivers and actively seeks to strengthen understanding within family systems to best support individuals. Her therapeutic approach combines culturally sensitive, evidence-based treatments with a focus on individual/family strengths.

Prior to joining Pacific Anxiety Group, Dr. Desai worked at Kaiser San Jose as a clinical psychologist in the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department after completing her postdoctoral residency there as well.  Dr. Desai completed her undergraduate degree in Psychology and Human Development from the University of California, Davis before attending a doctoral program in clinical psychology, with an emphasis on family systems, at Azusa Pacific University in Southern California. During her doctoral program, Dr. Desai received extensive training in evidence-based treatments, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy. Dr. Desai completed her internship training at Monterey County Children's Behavioral Health.

Dr. Desai is passionate about mental health and truly enjoys providing individualized therapy to those seeking help. She is a first-generation Indian immigrant who moved to California when she was three years old.  In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, hiking, watching movies, and traveling.