Kayla Sims, LPC

Hi, I’m Kayla! I’ve been a counselor for 18 years, and I’ve spent that time walking alongside kids, teenagers, and adults as they figure out how to handle whatever life is throwing at them. My passion is working with teenagers and neurodivergent individuals as they try to find their way in the world, and it’s work I care about deeply.

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Part of the reason it means so much to me is that I’ve been there. As a former teenager and a neurodivergent person myself, I know what it feels like to look around and wonder why everything seems harder for you than it does for everyone else. I approach every session trying to be the therapist I wish I had when I was younger: someone who gets it, who doesn’t judge, and who helps you find what actually works for you.

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I know life can be overwhelming sometimes. School, friendships, family changes, everyday stress and demands, and just trying to make it through the day can leave you feeling completely drained. Helping with that stress and overwhelm is my specialty. Together, we’ll work on putting things in perspective and building coping skills you can start using right away, in the classroom, at home, and everywhere in between. I especially love using DBT skills because they’re practical, easy to remember, and really work in the moment when emotions are running high. My hope is that you’ll leave each session feeling a little lighter and a little more ready to take on what’s next.

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I’m a proud University of West Georgia graduate several times over! I earned my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Psychology there, and then went back for a second master’s and a specialist degree in Counseling. I guess you could say I really love learning about how people work!

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At home, you’ll find me playing with my family. My two boys are all about Legos and RC cars and trucks, so most days I’m just along for the ride, whether that’s building something new on the living room floor or chasing a remote control truck across the yard. And if there’s music playing, there’s a good chance it’s Tom Petty. I’m a huge fan and will happily talk about his music with anyone who asks! Those moments keep me grounded and remind me how important it is to slow down, play, and enjoy the people we love.

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I know that reaching out for help can feel hard, and that’s okay. I’m so glad to be part of your school community, and I’m looking forward to getting to know you and working together to make things a little easier.