Kaitlyn Milstead, PhD, LMFT

Welcome

Welcome! I’m glad you’re here. Reaching out for support can feel overwhelming, and I know that taking this first step often comes with a mix of hope, uncertainty, and vulnerability. My goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable showing up exactly as you are. Together, we can slow down and explore the stories that have shaped your life while creating space for new possibilities. I believe you are more than the struggles that brought you here, and I would be honored to walk alongside you as you begin writing the next chapter of your story.

Why I Do This Work

I was drawn to this work through both personal experiences in the mental health field and a deep passion for helping others find healing and growth. Over time, I became especially interested in how people make meaning of their experiences and how those meanings shape the way they see themselves and their lives. I believe that with the right support, people can begin to shift the narratives that no longer serve them and create new ones that feel more authentic and empowering. Being part of that process is what continues to inspire me every day.

Who I Work With Best

I work best with individuals of all ages who are curious about themselves and open to exploring their stories in a deeper way. Many of the people I work with feel stuck in old narratives, whether related to anxiety, self-worth, relationships, or life transitions, and are ready to begin creating something different. I especially enjoy working with clients who want to better understand themselves and are motivated to break free from patterns that no longer align with who they are or want to become.

My Approach

My approach primarily draws from Narrative Therapy and Experiential Therapy, helping clients explore the stories they have come to believe about themselves while creating opportunities to experience new ways of thinking and being. I believe meaningful change happens not only through insight, but through actively engaging with emotions, patterns, and experiences in a way that creates lasting transformation.

Clients often describe me as both direct and supportive. I am not afraid to gently challenge the narratives that may be keeping you stuck, but I do so with empathy, respect, and a deep belief in your capacity for growth. My goal is to walk alongside you through the deeper work of therapy, helping you uncover the strengths and identity that exist beneath the struggles.

What a Session Feels Like

Sessions are collaborative and centered around your pace and your goals. We may spend time talking through current challenges, exploring patterns that keep showing up in your life, or making sense of past experiences that still feel impactful today. Some sessions may feel more reflective and insight-focused, while others are more skills-based and practical, depending on what you need that day. My goal is to create a space where we can gently explore what’s been holding you back while also building new ways of thinking and coping.

Areas of Focus

• Eating Disorder Treatment: I approach eating disorder treatment by looking beyond food and focusing on the deeper emotions, beliefs, and narratives that fuel the struggle. Together, we work to challenge unhelpful stories, build self-compassion, and create a healthier relationship with self, body, and food. Recovery is possible at any stage.
• Life Transitions: Major life changes, whether expected or not, can stir up old patterns and leave you feeling unmoored. My goal is to provide a space to process uncertainty and help you move through transition with greater confidence and purpose.
• Family Therapy: I help families identify the patterns that may be keeping them stuck and create healthier ways of communicating and connecting. Using a collaborative, systems-based approach, we work to strengthen relationships while honoring each family member’s unique perspective and experience.
• Anxiety and Depression: I help clients understand the underlying stories that contribute to anxiety and depression while building practical tools for managing symptoms. Together, we work toward creating a life that feels more aligned with who you want to be.
• Therapy for Teens and Parents: Adolescence brings real challenges for both teens and the parents who love them. I help families create stronger, more supportive relationships during these important developmental years, reducing conflict and building connection.
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): I help clients better understand the cycle of intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors that make OCD feel exhausting and all-consuming. Together, we work to separate your identity from OCD, challenge the stories it tells you, and develop healthier ways of responding so it takes up less space in your life.

Outside the Office

When I’m not in the office, I enjoy spending time with my family and reading, I will always be curious what book you’re reading. I also love time with my dog, Dolly Parton, who mainly just likes to nap. These moments help me slow down and recharge outside of work.

Clients often share that therapy with me feels comfortable and approachable, rather than overly formal or intimidating. They appreciate that sessions feel like a genuine, down-to-earth conversation where they can be themselves while still doing meaningful therapeutic work.