Janay Harden

Janay Harden is a contemporary young adult author and licensed clinical social worker specializing in mental health. Her writing focuses on the experiences of African American young adults, exploring themes of love, friendship, and family dynamics through a therapeutic lens. She brings authenticity to her narratives by drawing from her decade of professional experience counseling children, families, and schools.

As a millennial therapist licensed in New Jersey, Harden integrates her clinical expertise into her storytelling, using fiction as a bridge between healing and self-expression. Her work emphasizes the mental health journeys of melanated characters, offering nuanced portrayals of their struggles and triumphs. Known as "The Storytelling Therapist," she employs a multifaceted approach that extends beyond traditional therapy into transformative group sessions and workshops.

Harden continues to expand her literary contributions, crafting stories that resonate with readers seeking relatable, emotionally rich narratives. Her unique perspective as both a mental health professional and an author allows her to create impactful works that foster understanding and connection.
The Indigo Lewis Books
# Title Year
1 Forty-two Minutes 2021
2 Someone More Like Myself 2022
3 Locked In 2023
Standalone Novels
# Title Year
1 Hey, Brown Girl 2021
2 April Showers 2023
3 Make Me Over 2024