Kayla Abbatello
PsyD · Licensed Psychologist
Kayla Abbatello, PsyD (she/her/hers) is a licensed psychologist. She approaches therapy in a relational manner so as to build a genuine connection with those seeking therapy. Kayla believes the most important aspect of the therapeutic process is the working relationship and strives to understand others' thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and desires as best she can. She helps those seeking therapy to build awareness of how their past experiences (with self and others) might be contributing to current stressors and ways of relating to distress. Kayla understands that therapy is real work in addition to all of the other demands of life, and as such, strives to meet people where they are with humor and compassion.
Dr. Abbatello earned her doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Pacific University in Portland, Oregon. During her time in Portland, Kayla gained experience in various settings including community mental health, college counseling centers, intensive-outpatient programs, and assessment sites. She completed her clinical internship at Vanderbilt University, which allowed her to serve students of varying identities and goals in life. There, she also learned the importance of wrap-around services and believes collaboration with other health professionals greatly improves quality of care.
Kayla uses an integrative therapy approach that draws heavily from relational psychodynamic practices. She believes it is crucial to explore and understand identity through current and historical lenses, and therefore incorporates feminist and critical race theory into her work. Kayla understands that the limitations of identity and privilege can sometimes hinder the therapy experience and will work with you to fulfill each individual's goals. She enjoys working with adults who are looking to build self-awareness, explore and identify interpersonal patterns, process relational stressors and trauma, and gain connection, insight, and self-compassion.
Personally, Kayla enjoys reading, traveling, trivia, and tv shows. She is new to the Austin area and enjoys the craft brewery and music scene. She has a one-year-old curious cat that you may see pop up every now and then in telehealth sessions.
