Kayla Karesh, LMFT, ATR

You should not have to navigate the stressors of life alone. I will get to know you and your story. My approach is structured and practical, deep, restorative, and adaptive. As a clinician, I see you as a human being, not a diagnosis, and still profoundly value how these categories help us triage and organize care methods to be most effective.

We will develop an individualized plan that will work for you. Because integration is the foundation of wellbeing, we will strategically combine evidence-based, body-based, expressive, and spiritual therapies to help you make changes in your life: both immediately and for the long term. I have an extensive knowledge of highly effective psychotherapy modalities honed over decades as a therapist. As a clinician, my strength is in the art of connecting many different methods, ideas, and relational care systems in a cohesive manner. And, I know that building a relationship of trust and collaboration with you is the most important factor in the healing process. Healing is non-linear and can be very messy at times. I welcome this as part of the process.

I have the experience to be effective. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (CA), and Registered Art Therapist with over 20 years experience providing integrative care to individuals, couples, and families. In addition to leading our amazing team of providers at Create Wellbeing, I have held clinical and executive director roles at premier treatment programs including BrightQuest, Center for Discovery, Bridges to Recovery, and True Life Center for Wellbeing.

I had excellent training and I am a lifelong learner. I hold a Masters of Arts in Marital and Family Therapy from Loyola Marymount University with specialized training in clinical art therapy, a Masters of Arts in Theology from Fuller Seminary, and a Bachelor of Arts in English from Azusa Pacific University. I integrate spirituality as an evidence-based approach to wellbeing where clinically desired. All of my clinical practice has been in settings treating complex issues with integrative care approaches. I have done extensive ongoing education in a wide range of modalities and deeply enjoy the art of clinical integration.

I practice what I preach. In and out of the office, I imperfectly embody the wellbeing practices that I teach every day: engaging in prayer/meditation, balanced nutrition, restorative sleep, effective hydration, and mindful movement. I spend quality time with my family, extended family, spiritual community, and my incredible circle of friends and colleagues. I am a voracious reader and find pleasure in making connections and seeking deeper meaning in all things. I play violin and guitar, paint, and enjoy yoga, cycling, and sailing.