Chicago City Wire

Tytannie Harris initially pursued a career in sports broadcasting but eventually shifted to social work, a change she describes as a "divine redirection." Growing up in the foster care system, Harris lacked representation in therapy. "I didn’t have therapists who looked like me," she recalls. This experience motivated her to become the therapist she needed and led her to establish TMH Behavioral Services (TMH) in Chicago.

For three years, Harris managed TMH on her own before expanding her team. Her goal of hiring one therapist quickly grew into a staff of six by April of that year. TMH offers various services, including yoga therapy, sound therapy, mother-daughter workshops, and teen workshops. The organization is supported by Blue Cross and Blueshield of Illinois and serves clients in homes, schools, libraries, and assisted living facilities.

In 2020, Harris joined the Chicago Sky’s Small Business Bootcamp. This experience helped her develop business infrastructure and leadership skills while providing access to funding and mentors. In honor of her late grandmother, she launched The Annie Harries Gift Back Grant to support Black-owned wellness businesses with funding and consulting.

Recognizing the importance of community among business owners, Harris emphasizes mentorship and resource sharing. Her advice for entrepreneurs is to be clear about their purpose, build a team, acquire business skills, and appreciate the journey.

Harris's personal experiences inspired Tina’s Home—a Transitional Living Placement for young women aged 18–24 facing housing insecurity after aging out of foster care. Named after an influential figure from her past, Tina’s Home will offer comprehensive support services aimed at sustainable healing and permanent housing.

Additionally, Harris founded the TMH ManCave to address mental health needs among Black men and boys. Led by an all-male advisory board, it provides free group therapy sessions focused on issues such as grief and emotional regulation.

"We give men their own space," says Harris about TMH ManCave's mission.

For Tytannie Harris, establishing TMH Behavioral Services is more than just professional work; it's a personal calling driven by lived experiences in foster care.