Dr. Kayla Smith, PhD, LCSW

I am equal parts professional and playful. Life is too short not to laugh at yourself, find joy in the small things, and stay curious like a child seeing the world for the first time. When I’m not writing, speaking, or leading, you can usually find me in the stands as a proud cheer mom, binging documentaries, or unwinding on my tractor with the sun on my face. Crafting, building, traveling, and spending time with my kids bring me the kind of balance I value most.

My journey has been both personal and professional. I earned my PhD in Philosophy, became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Supervisor (LCSW-S), authored two books, and now have the honor of speaking nationally on mental health, leadership, and innovation. I founded Helen’s Project, a multi-state nonprofit dedicated to making behavioral health care more accessible and equitable.

Along the way, I have been grateful to receive the United Way Social Innovation Incubator award and to join their Social Innovation Accelerator, where I continue to champion sustainable, community-driven solutions for mental health care.

More than titles or achievements, what truly drives me is heart. Whether I’m standing on a stage, sitting at the advisory table, or laughing with my kids, my mission remains the same: to lift voices, build community, and remind people that healing can be both powerful and deeply human.