Kayla McKissick

LPC/MHSP, 11 years of experience
Authentic
Solution oriented
Warm
VirtualAvailable

I am a licensed therapist with over 11 years of experience helping individuals and families navigate life transitions, relationship challenges, and the deep wounds of religious trauma and narcissistic abuse. I offer a supportive, nonjudgemental space where we can work together to identify goals, build on your strengths, set boundaries, and help you rebuild trust in yourself. My approach is rooted in evidence-based practices such as CBT, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy that are always tailored to your unique needs and pace.

Get to know me

In our first session together, here's what you can expect

In our first session, my goal is to get to know you and understand what brings you to therapy. I'll ask questions about your history, current challenges, and what you are hoping to gain from our work together. I tend to do more listening than talking in this session, focusing on building a strong, trusting connection rather than jumping straight into problem solving. This helps me get a fuller picture of who you are so we can tailor our work to fit your unique needs and goals

The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions

One of my greatest strengths as a provider is creating a warm, open-minded, and nonjudgmental space where clients can feel truly heard and accepted. I welcome people from all backgrounds and lifestyles, and I value each client's unique identity and experiences. I am a strong listener who takes time to understand your story before offering guidance, and I aim to build trust through empathy, respect, and consistent support. Clients often share that they feel safe, seen and empowered in our work together.

The clients I'm best positioned to serve

I am especially passionate about supporting teens, college students, LGBTQ+ individuals, mothers, and women navigating stress and major life transitions. I also specialize in working with individuals healing from religious trauma and those recovering from narcissistic relationships, whether with a parent, partner, or someone else close to them. Whether you are facing identity questions, academic or social pressures, relationship or parenting challenges, or the emotional impact of spiritual or psychological manipulation, I create a safe, affirming space where you can feel heard and understood. My compassionate, strengths-based approach supports you in gaining clarity, reclaiming your sense of self, building resilience, and moving forward with confidence.

SpecialtiesTop specialties
Other specialties
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Serves ages
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Accepts
Location
Virtual
My treatment methods

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help clients identify unhelpful thought patterns, develop healthier coping skills, can create meaningful, lasting change. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and practical. I believe that with the right tools and support, people can learn to manage anxiety, depression, stress, and other challenges more effectively. In sessions, I work closely with clients to set goals, challenge negative thinking, and build skills they can use in daily life. Whether you are looking to manage overwhelming emotions, improve relationships, or feel more confident in your decisions, I use CBT strategies tailored to your unique needs and pace.

Solution Focused Brief Treatment

I regularly use Solution-Focused Brief Therapy to help clients tap into their strengths, clarify their goals, and move forward with confidence. This approach is centered on what is working, rather than what is wrong. This helps the client identify practical steps towards meaningful change. In our work together, we will focus on your current resources and past successes to build solutions that fit your life. SFBT is especially effective for clients who are looking for short-term, goal oriented support and want to see progress quickly.

Person-centered (Rogerian)

In my 11 years of practice, Person-Centered Therapy has been at the heart of how I build strong, authentic relationships with clients. Rooted in the belief that each person has the capacity for growth and self-healing, this approach allows me to meet clients with genuine empathy and deep respect. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings at your own pace. Instead of directing the process, I walk alongside you, helping you reconnect with your inner strengths and move toward greater self-understanding. This approach is helpful for those seeking a deeper connection with themselves and a supportive, trusting therapeutic relationship.

, 5 ratings

2 ratings with written reviews

June 27, 2025

I have seen Kayla for the last three weeks. I know that it sounds like a short period but therapy has always felt like a chore , i now feel like i have a countdown for what ways in which I will grow. I feel so comfortable I can be honest (I know that’s the point but i’ve never been able to wear my heart as low on my sleeve for people to see) , this is because she is an amazing listener. Kayla, thank you. Not for just giving me a space to understand my thoughts but for me to heal.

Verified client, age 18-24
Review shared after session 4 with Kayla

June 22, 2025

I love the idea of having a treatment plan. She was very considerate and asked insightful questions about my situation. She seemed to have a better grasp on my thoughts after one session than anyone I have worked with in the past.

Verified client, age 18-24
Review shared after session 1 with Kayla