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Hey, I’M KAYLA PORTER

– and I believe your symptoms are not in your head.

I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist with advanced training in EMDR therapy. I specialize in working with individuals and couples navigating transitions, trauma, relationship challenges, and the desire for more authentic connection — with themselves and others. My work is heart-centered and collaborative; I view you as the expert in your own life, and I walk beside you as a compassionate guide, helping you reconnect with your own strength, clarity, and inner wisdom.

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YOU CAN HEAL

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YOU CAN HEAL \\

On the outside, I looked like I had it all together — but inside, I felt like I was barely holding on.

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I showed up for everyone else, worked hard, and kept smiling. But beneath the surface, I carried stress, anxiety, and a quiet disconnection with myself. Behind the polished surface, I was struggling with:

Anxiety that never seemed to quiet down
A constant pressure to be “enough” for everyone else
Disconnection from my own needs and boundaries
Exhaustion from holding it all together
Relationships that felt strained no matter how hard I tried

These experiences taught me that real healing doesn’t come from holding it all together on the outside — it begins within, and it deepens through authentic connection with yourselves and others.

For years, I leaned on talk therapy — both as a therapist and as a client. While it offered insight and support, I often found myself (and those I worked with) circling the same struggles without real movement.

Everything began to shift when I was introduced to EMDR.

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In just three months, I accomplished more healing than I had in two years of traditional talk therapy. Old wounds that felt stuck finally began to loosen. I was able to release the weight of the past in a way that talking alone had never touched.

That experience changed everything. Not only did I begin facilitating EMDR for my own clients, but I also discovered the importance of pairing it with self-compassion — learning to meet oneself with gentleness instead of judgement.

Now, Sacred Roots Wellness is built from that personal and professional journey:

Moving beyond surface-level “fixes” into deep, sustainable healing
Releasing the weight of past wounds through EMDR
Strengthening resilience with self-compassion
Helping individuals and couples show up more authentically in their lives and relationships

I don’t just believe in the work I offer — I’ve lived it. And it’s why I’m so passionate about walking alongside others as they find freedom, wholeness, and connection within themselves and their relationships.

This is why I do what I do!

As a therapist, I believe healing begins with being truly seen and deeply heard. I create a space where you can safely explore your inner world — your hopes, hurts, patterns, and potential — without fear of judgement. My approach blends clinical skill with intuitive presence, grounded in evidence-based practices and enriched by holistic perspectives.

Book a Free Consultation Call →

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I do believe in:

Healing at the root, not just managing symptoms
The nervous system as the foundation of emotional well-being
Self-compassion over self-criticism
Honoring your story, not minimizing it
Safe, supportive spaces where you can be fully seen
Growth that feels sustainable, not overwhelming
Strengthening your relationship with yourself first

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I don’t believe in:

Quick fixes or one-size-fits-all approaches
Staying stuck in cycles that keep you disconnected from yourself
Pushing past your limits in the name of “healing”
Ignoring the impact of past experiences
Shame as a motivator for change
Surface-level work that avoids what’s underneath
The idea that you have to do this alone

Education + Training

Degrees

B.A. Major in Exercise and Sport Science and Major in Psychology | Western State Colorado University - 2014

M.A. Marriage and Family Therapy | Northcentral University - 2019

States of Practice + Licensure

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist 2022044898 in Missouri

Certifications

Certified Reciprocal Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CRADC)

Training

Gottman Level 1 - Advanced Training | Gottman Institute

EMDR - Advanced Training | EMDRIA

Ready to finally get the answers you deserve?

Whether you’re feeling stuck, seeking deeper self-understanding, or ready to grow through what you’ve gone through — I’m here to support your journey. Healing is possible, and you don’t have to walk the path alone.

Book a Free Call →

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The Podcast

Coming Soon

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YouTube Channel