Kayla McDonald, LMSW
Feel free to contact me today at: 860-258-4171
My experience as a former educator provides me with a unique and effective approach to helping my clients find their inner strength and existing wisdom. This background in teaching has shaped me into an effective communicator who can adapt each session to fit the individual needs of the client, no matter where they are in their healing process. In sessions you can expect to come to a supported and thorough understanding of specific skills to use and practice outside of the therapy setting. Whether you are looking to more effectively manage mood-related symptoms, process through a complicated situation, or receive support in eating disorder recovery, I will meet you where you are and help you to build a strong foundation of skills to help you reach your goals.
My sessions are relaxed, open, and affirming to all, including those who identify with the LGBTQ+ community (like me!). I encourage my clients to “come as you are”; the strongest work is done when you feel you can be yourself. In order to create this relaxed atmosphere, I myself incorporate my own personality and sense of humor into our sessions. I will collaborate with you to set achievable and realistic goals that push you towards success in finding peace and healing. You will often hear me repeat “progress is not linear”, which means that even when we feel we are not taking steps forward it still counts as progress. It is important to me to highlight all small steps toward your goals with the hope that you, too, will soon be able to identify your progress on your own.
I approach the client-therapist relationship as one that is long-term. You may be wondering what to expect regarding how long you’ll be in therapy. The answer is personal—some folks stay for a few months and others for a few years. The beauty of goals-based therapy is that each time we reach a goal together we have the opportunity to set a new one. Like construction on I-91, the work is never really done.
My passion is in eating disorder work and abolishing the diet culture that is so pervasive in our society. I have been working with clients who have eating disorders and disordered eating/exercise patterns since early 2020. I have worked in multiple levels of care (PHP, IOP, outpatient) and with all eating disorder diagnoses. I am excited about teaching my clients practical skills for easing anxiety, relieving depressive symptoms, and finding a comfortable and healthy balance with life. I would love to help you recognize the beauty in your life that already exists as you work towards your goals and dreams.
In addition to supporting eating disorder recovery, I enjoy encouraging and elevating educators who are struggling in the field. I am compassionate and empathetic towards the unique difficulties of a teaching career and excited to support your whole self both within and outside of your job. While your identity as an educator can, at times, feel like your entire personality, I recognize that it is a career requiring more attention to developing your sense of self outside of the classroom. You may need to compartmentalize the different hats you wear while at work, but each role is vital to nurture and support in order to prevent burnout and fatigue in your career.
If you feel ready to begin your journey to a destination of balance and acceptance in your life, please reach out today and schedule a consultation or appointment. I can’t wait to meet you!
