“Be yourself; Everyone else is already taken”
Hi there! I’m Kayla and I have dedicated my Social Work career to working with children, youth, young adults and families. I received my Masters of Social Work degree at Wilfrid Laurier University after completing my Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology with Honours from the University of Guelph. At present, I am employed as a School Social Worker at a private high school in Oakville, Ontario.
As a counsellor, I am passionate about establishing a connection with you, guiding and empowering you by holding a space that is warm, compassionate, non-judgemental and encouraging, so that you feel safe, seen and heard. I will create this environment for you so that you experience the support, growth and healing that you desire.
In elementary and high school, I struggled academically, which led me to developing severe school anxiety and self-esteem issues. When I became a varsity athlete in university, I felt significant stress, shame, and pressure to perform in both school and basketball. I struggled with post-concussion syndrome and chronic pain, grief and loss, anxiety, and depression.
During these moments of difficulty, a therapist helped me process my pain and draw upon my strengths and resilience. I endured these challenges and learned how to cope and experience sustainable change to live my healthiest, most authentic life. My life experience drives me to be the therapist who helps you towards healing and personal growth, the same way that I was helped.
In my practice, I value active listening, practicing skills and strategies in session, offering psychoeducation, and emphasizing the importance of working with both the body and mind. I also have the ability to practice from a Christian perspective.
I draw upon my ongoing education and life experiences, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems Theory (IFS), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Mindfulness Approaches. I am experienced in a diverse range of mental health needs, with expertise in treating anxiety, low mood and depression, family dynamics, crisis intervention, school and peer conflict, self-esteem issues, chronic pain and grief and loss. I am a Registered Social Worker in good standing with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers, and a member of the Ontario Association of Professional Social Workers.
“When we deny the story, it defines us. When we own the story, we can write a brave new ending”