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Kiaylah McCallum, Counseling Intern, Old Dominion University

I believe therapy should feel relaxed, real, and collaborative. I enjoy working with adolescents and emerging adults who are navigating anxiety, life transitions, identity, or simply trying to figure out what comes next. My goal is to create a space where you can show up as yourself, feel understood without judgment, and build practical tools that support your growth, confidence, and resilience.

Therapist Profile

1. How would you describe your therapy style in everyday language?

I would describe my therapy style as relaxed and conversational. While I still provide structure within sessions, I value authenticity and want my clients to feel as comfortable as possible being themselves.

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2. What type of client do you tend to connect with best?

I connect best with adolescents and emerging adults. I enjoy working with individuals who are navigating major life transitions, emotional challenges, or periods of uncertainty. I look forward to supporting these clients as they figure out what comes next.

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3. What do clients usually appreciate most about working with you?

Clients usually appreciate my transparency throughout the therapeutic process. I’ve had clients share that I make sessions feel less stagnant or overly clinical because of my ability to create an engaging environment where they can be themselves.

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4. How do you help clients feel comfortable when they are nervous, guarded, or unsure about therapy?

I help clients feel more comfortable with therapy by taking the time to understand where their resistance may be coming from. Sometimes clients are guarded because of previous experiences with therapy or the stigma surrounding mental health. I think it’s important to validate those experiences while also giving clients the opportunity to develop a new perspective on what therapy can look and feel like.

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5. What topics, life experiences, or mental health concerns do you feel especially called to support?

I feel called to support individuals who are navigating anxiety and learning how to build resilience. Life experiences have a way of showing up unexpectedly, and I’m passionate about helping clients navigate those experiences while building a greater sense of empowerment. I also enjoy supporting individuals who are exploring their identity or navigating life as a first-generation individual. 

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6. What should a new client know about what it feels like to sit in session with you?

I want clients to know that sessions with me can feel like a fresh breath of air. I like to think of therapy as entering a new era of your life. It may feel unfamiliar or even a little uncomfortable at first but can also be exciting to explore.

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7. Outside of your clinical work, what are 2–3 things that show your personality?

I would describe myself as expressive and inquisitive. I really value quality time with my family and friends, and I enjoy finding little things that allow me to have fun. Whether I’m watching my favorite Twitch streamers, crocheting a new project, or trying new foods, I enjoy experiences that allow me to relax and express different sides of myself.

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8. Do you use humor, pop culture, storytelling, faith/spirituality, homework, journaling, or practical tools in your sessions? If so, how?

I love to use humor and pop culture into sessions because I think they can help therapy feel more relatable and natural. I also incorporate faith and spirituality to help clients explore how their experiences connect with their sense of purpose.

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9. What is one misconception people may have about therapy that you wish you could clear up?

One misconception about therapy is that the counselor is supposed to tell you exactly what to do or how to fix your problems. My role is to work with clients to navigate difficult situations and consider how their underlying beliefs influence the decisions they make.

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10. Complete this sentence: "You might be a good fit for me if you're looking for a therapist who..."

You might be a good fit for me if you’re looking for a therapist who genuinely wants to understand you as a person. I believe therapy should be a space where you can show up as yourself without feeling judged, while still being challenged when needed. I’ll support you in making sense of what you’re feeling and finding practical ways to create changes that actually fit your life.

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