Kayla Jiaxuan Zhang, LMFT

Staff Therapist

Pronouns: she/her/hers

Languages: English & Mandarin (简体)

Contact Info:

  • kayla@empoweredconnectionscounseling.com

Education:

  • Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy, Northwestern University

I work with:

  • Relationships

  • Families

  • Individual adults

  • Children & Adolescents

Specialties:

I specialize in treating:

  • couple relationships

  • individuals with relationship concerns

  • international students, immigrants and other cultural identity-related struggles 

  • depression

  • anxiety

Modalities:

  • Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)

  • Humanistic and collaborative approach

  • Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT)

  • Internal Family Systems (IFS)

  • Mindfulness-based approach

  • Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Personal bio:

I believe healing begins with connection—whether with ourselves or with the people we care most. When individuals feel truly supported, they can explore and grow with courage. When couples feel seen and understood by one another, they can move beyond painful patterns and find new ways of being together. In our work, I aim to create a safe, supportive space where clients can open up, repair, and build the closeness they long for and move through life with a little more ease and authenticity.

I grew up in Shanxi, China and later moved to the U.S. for my education. Living between cultures as an international student and immigrant has shaped how I see the world, and I bring that lens into my work with clients navigating multicultural identities, life transitions, and sometimes tender questions of where we belong. I believe our differences enrich us, and I'm dedicated to honoring each client's cultural background and lived experience.

I offer therapy in both English and Mandarin, and work with individuals, couples, and families. My clinical practice is grounded in a systemic perspective, paying close attention to how culture, power, and context shape our lives and relationships. Anti-oppressive and queer-affirmative values are central to my practice, and I strive to make therapy a place where every part of who you are is welcome.

Outside of the therapy room, I enjoy rock climbing with friends, making pottery at home, and camping in the forest! 

During our initial sessions, you can expect: To get to know me and, for me, to get to know you. We will discuss and explore your goals for therapy and how therapy will look like for you. Feel free to ask any questions!

Schedule an Appointment
Back to Team