Meet Kayla

Kayla Z. Gasper, LPC, LSATP, LCMHC, CSAC

Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Substance Abuse Treatment Practitioner

I believe therapy is an active, collaborative relationship that offers a safe and supportive space to explore life stressors, build insight, and develop practical tools for meaningful change.

At times, we find ourselves feeling stuck in life and in need of support. These moments may arise from depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, interpersonal conflict, or behavioral challenges. I strive to create an atmosphere of safety and trust where clients can be open and honest with themselves, allowing us to actively work together to address and resolve the concerns that bring them to therapy.

I primarily work from a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) framework, helping clients identify and change unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors that interfere with effective coping. I also utilize evidence-based interventions including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). I am certified in TF-CBT and intensively trained in CPT to work with children, adolescents, and adults who have experienced single-incident trauma or complex childhood trauma.

I am Foundationally Trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Intensively Trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Children (DBT-C). I specialize in working with individuals who experience emotional dysregulation, mood disorders, trauma-related symptoms, substance use, self-harm behaviors, and family conflict—particularly when concerns are complex or have not been fully addressed in prior treatment. I currently work with clients ages 11 and older for mood, trauma, and behavioral concerns. (Currently not active on an Adherent DBT team, can provide DBT informed therapy only).

My clinical background includes experience in correctional facilities, community-based, and school-based settings, which shaped my specialization in substance use disorders and deepened my understanding of how addiction affects both individuals and families. I am LGBTQ+ affirming and committed to providing an inclusive, nonjudgmental space for all clients.

My approach combines compassion with structured, skills-based therapies to help clients build resilience, improve daily functioning, and increase confidence in managing life’s challenges. My goal is for each person to leave therapy empowered with tools they can continue to use long after sessions end—ultimately becoming their own therapist.

Education:

  • BS in Psychology from University of Mary Washington

  • MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Regent University

Licenses/Certifications:

  • LPC (VA): # 0701008709

  • LCMHC (NC): #21205

  • LSATP (VA): #0718000427

  • CSAC (VA): #0710103312

  • Board Approved Supervisor

Self-pay rates:

  • $200 for 53+ min individual session

  • $175 for 45 min individual session

  • $60 per 90 min group session