Meet Kayla
I'm glad you're here. Get to know me
Background
Although I have an upbeat and optimistic personality, I am no stranger to adversity. Growing up in Kentucky, I was raised by teenage parents in an environment rife with intergenerational trauma, substance abuse, and complex family dynamics. My upbringing was marked by profound challenges to say the least. Transitioning into adulthood, I found myself at a crossroads, realizing that I had spent my life prioritizing others' needs at the expense of my own happiness, perpetually seeking peace and avoiding confrontation and discomfort.
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Determined to redefine my familial legacy, I embraced the transformative power of choice and embarked on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. On New Year's Eve of 2013, I made a lifelong commitment to prioritize my well-being, a resolution that has led me down an unexpected yet ultimately enriching path.
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My own journey has taught me that change, though uncomfortable, is an integral part of personal growth. Each individual's journey unfolds uniquely, at its own pace. For me, this meant relinquishing relationships that hindered my happiness, establishing healthy boundaries, and seeking new horizons to gain fresh perspectives. While daunting, these changes proved profoundly rewarding, shaping the trajectory of my life.
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Today, I continue to navigate life with unwavering determination, honoring my commitment to self-improvement made on that momentous New Year's Eve. My resolve to take charge of my narrative has not wavered, propelling me to advocate for my well-being, nurture my relationships, and serve my clients with dedication and authenticity.
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My own journey has taught me that change, though uncomfortable, is an integral part of personal growth.
Experience
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Working with clients of all ages and genders has been enriching, and I am deeply appreciative of the diversity of encounters that have shaped my practice.
I earned a Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green, KY. Following years of dedicated work, supervision, and continuous education, I achieved full counseling credentials as a Licensed Professional Counselor. During my time at WKU, I developed my expertise in trauma therapy through Play Therapy, obtaining certifications in Trauma-Based Art and Play Therapy for Children and Adolescents. In addition, I delved into couples' counseling and acquired certifications as a Level 1 and Level 2 trained John Gottman couples' counselor. Although my specialization does not focus on couples or children, these certifications have enriched my understanding of both self and interpersonal relationships.
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Engaging in a weekly meditation group for three years profoundly impacted me, fostering a profound sense of self-love and awareness through the mind-body-spirit connection. This transformative experience inspired me to pursue certification in Mindfulness and Meditation to empower others to embrace self-discovery and inner peace. Through my work with individuals who have encountered diverse traumas, I recognized the limitations of traditional talk therapy, which can sometimes be arduous and lengthy. Seeking a more biological and scientific approach to healing, I completed training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
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My professional journey spans various environments, from supporting individuals facing significant challenges in a Foster Care agency to providing counseling in community mental health settings, offering a broad spectrum of client experiences. Working with clients of all ages and genders has been enriching, and I am deeply appreciative of the diversity of encounters that have shaped my practice.
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Most recently, I had the privilege of working at Modern Therapy, a leading private practice in Houston, Texas, where I discovered my niche clientele. I specialize in assisting everyday professionals navigating life's complexities, including anxiety, depression, childhood-related issues, self-esteem, self-exploration, people-pleasing tendencies, boundary setting, life transitions, and the fundamental questions of self-discovery and human existence. If you resonate with these challenges or seek a deeper understanding of yourself, I possess the expertise and compassion to support your journey. Let's connect and embark on this transformative process together.
“The jump is so frightening between where I am and where I want to be. Because of all I may become, I will close my eyes and leap.”
Mary Anne Radmacher.
Commitment
My dedication to clients is straightforward: I offer 100% support. I provide a listening ear without judgment, assisting you in fostering self-love and developing your ability to attune to your inner self. Together, we will cultivate self-care practices and reframe your thoughts and self-dialogue to prioritize your well-being, fostering a self-centric approach. Witnessing the transformative impact of aligning our internal and external worlds is truly remarkable. I aim to empower you by revealing that, in most scenarios, you possess agency and more control than your emotions might suggest. By delving into deeply ingrained childhood influences, we can unearth the roots of your behaviors and emotions, often operating beneath conscious awareness. You will find answers to questions like, "Why do I act this way?" or "How can I change this pattern?" or "What alternative actions can I take?" or "Why do these events recur?" — unveiling insights you might not have realized you hold.
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My commitment is to serve you wholeheartedly, offering a blend of compassion and forthrightness. Authenticity is key; I don't offer superficial praise, rather I give genuine feedback that takes your needs and experiences into consideration. I will encourage and challenge you to engage in the transformative journey you've embarked on, providing gentle accountability and reminding you of your immense potential. Counseling is not just a profession but a vocation that brings me profound fulfillment. Collaborating with you as the storyteller of your journey, whether at the beginning of self-awareness, navigating shifts in thoughts and behaviors, or celebrating milestones of progress, is where I find my purpose. Trust in the process and in our partnership, allowing space for growth and preparedness for life's challenges ahead.