How Can I Help?
Trauma, Anxiety, Depression & Feeling Down, ADHD, Autism, LGBTQIA+, Stress, Coping Skills, Grief, Adjusting to Illness, Career Counseling, Low Self-Esteem, and more...
About Kayla, MS, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
Hi, I am originally from California, was raised in Pennsylvania but have been in Tampa, Florida long enough for it to be home (over 15 years now). Outside of the office, I have two dogs and lead an active lifestyle where I enjoy both doing and teaching yoga, lifting weights, and messing around in my garden. I enjoy balancing out all that movement with both lots of reading and crafting. When I have the time, I love traveling to the mountains for hiking and fresh air.
Why I Became a Counselor
At a very young age, I always identified as a helper. I spent a lot of time volunteering for multiple organizations starting with supporting my brother by volunteering for the local special Olympics. I started my professional career in education working with both students and families. I transitioned to counseling to find a deeper way to help others.
Education, Experience, and Approach
I am a post graduate Registered Mental Health Counseling Intern in the state of Florida with a master’s degree in clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have additional training in EMDR (EMDRIA approved) and both biofeedback and mindfulness through the Heart Math Institute.
As a therapist my first goal is to build a relationship with my clients with a felt sense of safety and rolling consent to help explore areas that may have become unclear, clouded, painful, and difficult. This is the first step towards clarity and relief. Deep relief and release can happen when we feel safe enough in our bodies to acknowledge the truth of our stories. I believe that truth comes not only from our minds and our stories, but from our bodies. From dropping down into them, the sensations they hold and feel, and what they are telling us.
I use an integrative approach that applies a combination of person-centered and attachment focused therapy, EMDR (EMDRIA basic trained), and somatic techniques to work towards a gentle releasing of trauma from the whole body.
Beyond my professional experiences, I am a human who has navigated trauma and lived neurodivergent experience. My experiences help me hold empathy and acceptance for anyone feeling stuck in their own story. Never forget that you matter, you are capable, and you make sense.