Kayla received her Bachelor of Arts degrees in both Psychology and Theatre from St. Ambrose University. She also earned her Masters of Arts in Drama Therapy at Kansas State University.

“I believe that kindness is the essence of growth, healing, and love.

When we are kind to not only each other, but ourselves, we are recognizing the value of who we are and what we have the potential to do in the world. In my role as a therapist, I want my clients to feel empowered, supported, and safe. I do this by fostering moments of kindness and self-love in each session, which are then learned and reproduced to create a ripple effect across our families, our community, and our world at large.

As a drama therapist, I believe in the power of actively exploring empathy, relationships, and allowing our creative minds to take the lead. Famed playwright Arthur Miller states, “The mission of the theatre, after all, is to change. To raise the consciousness of people to their human possibilities.” Using drama therapy allows me to create a space for clients where they can step out of everyday “reality” and into a world where anything is possible. They can actively try on new roles, reverse time, get second chances, and ultimately, find confidence in who they are.

One of the most powerful tools I can use as a therapist is providing unconditional positive regard for everyone who steps through my door. The therapy space should be one of understanding and safety, where clients are supported for, not in spite of, everything they have experienced throughout their lives. I believe that there is as much power in quiet listening as there is in using sophisticated therapeutic techniques.

I want my clients to know that change and growth are always possible. That they have it within themselves to change and grow, and that I will always provide support throughout this often-difficult process. They are strong and resilient. They will inevitably face setbacks, but they will be able to get back up and try again. They have the power to make the world a better place and to be everything they want to be, because that is what it means to be human.”