Before we formally meet…

My name is Kayla Reda, and I’m the founder and primary therapist of Slowly, Surely. I earned my Masters of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from DePaul University and have years of experience working in a private practice setting. As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), I work to create a practice that aligns and speaks to my values. Working from a holistic point of view, I challenge my clients through an examination and reflection of their emotions (both analytically and physically), helping foster growth, change, and balance.

That aside, I’ll start by saying welcome and letting you know how proud I am of you for getting to this particular step in your therapeutic experience. If this is your first time entering this space—welcome. If you’re looking for a fresh start after being in a different therapeutic space before—welcome. Whatever the case might be—welcome.

I strive to meet all my patients with calmness and affirmation. As your therapist, I will work from a handful of different approaches detailed below. I am EMDR-Trained, EAGALA-Certified, & trained in Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy — allowing me to hand-pick various tools that will best assist us in your growth. In sessions, I often incorporate a sense of spirituality—emphasizing the mind-body connection and leaning into energy work to maximize your overall relationship with yourself.

Together, we will work collaboratively to build healthy coping skills—manifesting an authentic present and future reality.

On a personal note, you will see many of my film photos throughout this site. They should give you a sense of my being— I am a lover of nature and encourage my clients to connect with their surroundings. You will also notice that the pictures of me are more casual—while I am a professional, I am so much more than that (as are you)! I challenge myself to no longer identify wholly with my work, so this is that practice in action. Which is all to say, I practice what I encourage in my sessions and try all recommendations before offering it up as an option for your further healing.

Last but certainly not least: I have a black cat named Calypso, am a vegan ally, environmentalist, & a lover of reading—especially fantasy novels.

Approaches & Specialties

There’s no “one size fits all” approach to healing. I approach each session with an emphasis on acknowledging past trauma for present wisdom and bodywork—all in pursuit of the regaining a sense of control. We’ll work to heal ourselves to then heal the greater collective, together.

  • Client-centered therapy is a non-directive approach where the clinician meets the client where they are—allowing the client to have a more active role within the therapeutic relationship.

  • Ketamine-Assisted Therapy (KAP) is best suited for those interested in exploring the human consciousness through altered states of being. This form of therapy is significantly beneficial for those hoping to expand spiritually, heal trauma, & much more as it provides opportunity for neuroplasticity in the brain.

  • EMDR is a mental approach that utilizes stimulation—such as bilateral eye movements or tapping—to target troublesome memories or symptoms.

    Learn more at EMDR Institute

  • Feminist Therapy is guided by finding a sense of empowerment when focusing on processing, releasing, and understanding how societal expectations, limitations, restrictions, and treatment of women/LGBTQIA+ folk have impacted one’s quality of life.

  • DBT develops skills to increase mindfulness, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and emotional regulation.

  • ACT helps clients embrace challenges they’ve been avoiding by exploring and prioritizing their personal values.