Kayla Ortese (She/Her)

MACP, RP

Registered Psychotherapist

Founder of Inner Wellness Psychotherapy

Accepting Client

Professional Background

Greetings,

Kayla Ortese combines academic excellence and clinical expertise with a deep, compassionate understanding of the human experience. Her Afrocentric, trauma-informed approach is shaped not only by her education and training but also by her personal journey of witnessing and experiencing the power of healing, resilience, and growth. With a Master’s Degree in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University, Canada, Kayla draws on both her knowledge and her lived experiences to create a safe, nurturing space for clients.

Her qualifications, including Postgraduate Diplomas in Applied Behavior Analysis from Humber College and in Education from the National Teachers Institute in Abuja, Nigeria, equip her with the tools to support clients through a variety of mental health challenges. Her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Benue State University, Nigeria, further strengthens her ability to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and foster meaningful change.

Kayla’s unique blend of formal training and personal understanding allows her to witness and guide others through their healing process with empathy, respect, and cultural sensitivity. By integrating evidence-based practices with her personal journey, she empowers clients to heal and grow, honoring their stories while helping them find balance and thrive.

Philosophy of Practice

My therapeutic approach is grounded in the belief that “We listen, We don’t judge,” and that healing happens at the “right place, right time, and right circumstance.” In resonance with Freud, I believe that therapy extends “Beyond the Couch,” embracing a holistic journey that incorporates mind, body, and spirit. I perceive life’s trials as catalysts for personal evolution, acknowledging the profound beauty that can emerge amidst adversity. My curiosity about the complexities of the human experience informs my therapeutic approach, drawing inspiration from the natural cycles observed in the world around us, such as the metamorphosis of a butterfly and the growth of a flower.

With a deep understanding of the therapeutic process, I strive to create a space where every client feels heard, understood, believed, and empowered to navigate their unique journey toward healing, self-discovery, and becoming the best version of yourselves.

What Sets Me Apart?

What sets me apart is my blend of personal experiences and the integration of evidence-based practices such as trauma-informed care, TF-CBT, Somatic Experiencing Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Narrative Therapy (NT), Schema Therapy, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Self-Compassion Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). My culturally sensitive approach respects and honors each client’s lived experiences and beliefs.

I believe a journey of a thousand miles begins with intention. In therapy, I adopt a collaborative stance, engaging with clients to cultivate awareness and progress throughout their journey. I see the human experience as a series of seasons, each offering opportunities for growth, transformation, and renewal.

Collaborative Partnership

My work is centered around collaboration, partnership, advocacy, guidance, and providing mental nurturing. I support clients through life’s complexities, offering tools to help them navigate challenges and embrace resilience. This philosophy informs my work with individuals facing anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, emotional regulation, life transitions, burnout, gender-based violence (GBV), adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), schizophrenia, ADHD, autism, relational dynamics, PTSD, medical health anxiety, emotional trauma, intolerance of uncertainty, school/work-related stressors, and more.

Journey of Transformation, Empowerment, and Discovery

My philosophy of practice and approach led me to establish Inner Wellness Psychotherapy, where I offer a safe, nurturing environment for clients to heal, grow, and find balance. With a client-centered and holistic approach, I strive to cultivate an empathetic therapeutic space, encouraging clients to embark on a transformative journey toward self-discovery, healing, personal growth, and balance. I support clients as they navigate life’s complexities, providing tools to empower them to achieve inner harmony and well-being. Through my practice, I aim to provide a nurturing space for clients to explore their inner resilience, embrace change, and blossom into their true selves.

Together, let’s discover and harness your inner strength as we navigate life’s intricate tapestry.

Your Partner in Healing, Growth, and Balance.