Kayla Brinkley, LPC

Kayla Brinkley, M.Ed., LPC: EMDR Therapist for Professionals, Trauma, & Relationships

I work with adults and professionals in Houston, TX, who are navigating the heavy impact of trauma, anxiety, depression, and complex relationship challenges. As an older child in my family, I know firsthand what it’s like to be the one who has it all together, taking care of others often at the expense of myself. As an EMDR-trained therapist, I specialize in helping my clients move through this feeling that everything is "on them" and find relief from the cycles of stress and emotional weight. I provide a warm, curious, and compassionate space where you can explore what’s keeping you stuck. I’m here to be your biggest support system through life's most challenging times.

Specialties: Relationships, Transitions, and Professionals

I focus on helping clients through specific challenges across their lives:

Life Transitions and Grief

I help clients across the lifespan navigate major life transitions (like career changes, moves, becoming new parents, divorce, or the death of a loved one) and the associated grief and loss. We work to make sense of the past so that you can move forward with more ease, clarity, and purpose in your current life chapter.

Men & Relationship Cycles

I work well with men who are struggling in their partnerships. This often looks like a re-occurring argument that never seems to get resolved, or feeling as though 'everything is on them' and not knowing how to escape that negative cycle. I help men better understand themselves, learn to communicate in a way that allows them to feel truly understood, and foster deeper understanding of their partner's needs.

Professionals & Burnout

I have a special interest in working with other helping professionals (e.g., therapists, doctors, teachers, nurses) who are feeling the weight of the emotional labor they do. I offer a confidential, restorative space to decompress, process the demands of your work, and address professional burnout and compassion fatigue.

My Approach: EMDR and Deep Healing

I am an EMDR-trained therapist and use this modality to help clients effectively reprocess trauma and shift long-held negative self-beliefs. My approach blends evidence-based techniques like EMDR and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with a relational, person-centered style. I am thoughtful and will partner with you to challenge thoughts and create a new structure for growth that feels attainable.

Whether we are addressing the impact of past trauma, easing anxiety, resolving depression, or untangling complex relationship dynamics, my focus is always on creating awareness and finding practical pathways toward healing.

Beyond the Therapy Room

I believe in the work we do together because I know what it’s like to be the one on the couch; I prioritize my own healing and self-awareness. When I’m not in the office, my favorite activities include traveling with my husband, gardening, spending time with my family, and loving on my adorable lab, Bailey.

I look forward to connecting with you for a consultation to start your journey toward feeling more grounded and alive.