Kayla Hughes

As a Registered Psychologist with 5 years’ experience in mental health, I have the privilege of working with folks who serve and protect our communities, including veterans, first responders, and their families. My practice focuses on clients seeking relief from the debilitating effects of all types of traumatic exposure, e.g. PTSD, CPTSD, anxiety, depression, anger and symptoms specific to motor vehicle accidents. I also support clients who are struggling with body image, eating disorders, OCD, and self-esteem.   

EMDR is an especially effective tool in recovering from trauma, PTSD, and phobias. EMDR reduces the emotional charge around painful memories and as a result, clients feel less overwhelmed by past traumas. Over time, EMDR facilitates regaining a sense of control, in whether that means reduced fear or anxiety, increased self-confidence, or learning how to manage triggers that may have previously felt unmanageable. By reducing the intensity of emotional responses, clients can reclaim their lives and engage more fully with the world around them.  

Given my work with the first responder community, I have a deep understanding of how the complexities of these high-stress professions impact the people and the relationships closest to them, and so my work includes supporting first responder family members. Improving communication skills, managing stress and big emotions, and addressing secondary trauma are key areas of focus. I help families navigate the emotional toll of these careers, offering strategies to reduce conflict, improve emotional resilience, and enjoy healthier relationships.  

I also play an active role in coordinating care with other professionals to promote better, faster outcomes for my clients. I write psychological reports, advocate on my client’s behalf with third parties to ensure appropriate psychological care, and consult with physicians, case managers, and insurance providers. By combining personalized therapy with advocacy and inter-disciplinary collaboration, my clients receive the benefits of comprehensive psychological services. 

My approach is always client-centered, recognizing that everyone has a unique story. I believe in taking the time to truly understand what my clients are going through, and I tailor our sessions to meet their specific needs. I use a variety of therapeutic techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for addressing unhelpful thought patterns, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) to process and heal from deep emotional trauma. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is useful for connecting with values and discovering new ways to navigate challenges, while Mindfulness-based techniques allow clients to become more present and grounded in their day-to-day lives.   

I am honoured to be part of this profession, and I am genuinely dedicated to empowering folks achieve and maintain improved mental health and overall quality of life. Through collaborative and evidence-based techniques, my clients to gain insight, develop coping strategies, and foster resilience. It would be my pleasure to be a part of your journey, and I look forward to working with you.