Kayla Coghlan, CEO and co-owner of Clearwater Counseling, PC, is a Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner and a Licensed Independent Professional Counselor who first moved to central Nebraska in 2014 to offer much needed mental health services to Grand Island and surrounding rural communities.

Flash forward to today, Kayla has returned to her hometown of Omaha to offer mental health services to the metro community after opening a second practice location earlier this month.

Kayla first knew she wanted to pursue a career in counseling during her Master's Degree program. At this time, Kayla was working full time while raising two young children.

"I learned that I wanted to help others achieve what they didn't think was possible and provide them with skills that empower them and build confidence," Kayla said. "My ongoing goal as a business owner and mental health provider is to offer therapeutic services to individuals and families to aid in their healing process. I strive to do this by obtaining more education, attending additional training and consulting with other professionals in the field so that I am able to provide the most helpful tools and education to my clients."

Kayla, who obtained both her Bachelor's Degree in Behavioral Science and Master's Degree in Clinical Counseling at Bellevue University, has over 8 years of experience working with individuals diagnosed with behavioral disorders, chronic mental health disorders, substance use disorders and emotional/social disorders.

Kayla focuses on assessment and evaluations to provide each client with an accurate diagnosis and individualized care. She incorporates several therapeutic techniques during session to provide clients with healthy coping skills, increased positive cognitive patterns and relapse prevention plans for substance use and negative behaviors.

Recently, Kayla also received the Recognized Provider Award for 2017-2019 from the District 9 Rehabilitation Court in Grand Island.

While Kayla works diligently to support and empower her own team as a clinical supervisor, she also spends ample time advocating for mental health services and substance use treatment as part of rehabilitation services to law offenders.

When she's not seeing clients, Kayla enjoys spending time with her two sons and soon-to-be husband. She loves watching her children play sports, going to the movie theater, spending time outdoors and cuddling up with a good book.

Overall, Kayla said she doesn't view her profession as a "job," but rather a passion.

"I love being able to be part of people's change and see growth and healing on a daily basis," Kayla said. "When you put all of the small changes together, it becomes a big change. I strive to encourage all of my clients to find their own happiness and acceptance to be the best they can be every day."

Kayla sees clients at the Omaha location. To schedule an appointment with Kayla, please call 308-210-8487 or email info@clearwatercounselingne.org.