Kaitlyn Wernars, LMSW
Clinically Supervised by Kat Postel, LCSW-S
Specialties:
Relational Issues
Life Transitions
Emotionally Focused Therapy
People / Populations:
Couples
Young Adults 16+
Adults
Families
In person + virtual sessions
512.781.2506
kaitlyn@wildoaktherapy.com
Education
University of Southern California, Master’s in Social Work
University of North Texas, B.S. in Psychology and Biology
Training
EFT Trained
Adult Mental Health & Wellness specialization
I’m Kaitlyn, a licensed master social worker (LMSW) in Austin, Texas, providing warm, trauma-informed therapy for individuals and couples navigating relationship challenges, emotional disconnection, and the lasting impact of past experiences. Maybe you find yourself caught in the same patterns in your relationships, struggling to express what you need, or feeling disconnected from the people you care about. Maybe you long for closeness but find it difficult to trust, let your guard down, or feel truly understood. Whether you’re working through these experiences individually or with a partner, therapy can be a space to better understand yourself, explore what’s getting in the way of connection, and begin building more fulfilling relationships.
My approach is relational, attachment-focused, and trauma-informed. I believe our early experiences and important relationships shape how we see ourselves, how we respond to others, and what we come to expect from connection. Sometimes, the ways we learned to protect ourselves or navigate relationships no longer serve us, even when they once helped us through difficult experiences. Together, we can explore these patterns with curiosity and compassion, make room for the emotions and needs beneath them, and work toward greater self-understanding, trust, and emotional security.
I have a special interest in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for individuals and couples. EFT helps us understand the emotions and attachment needs beneath our reactions, as well as the cycles that can leave us feeling stuck, misunderstood, or far apart. In our work, we can begin to recognize these patterns, find new ways of responding to ourselves and one another, and create space for greater vulnerability, repair, and connection. My goal isn’t to help you become perfect at relationships, but to help you feel more secure in yourself and more connected to the people who matter to you.
As a queer therapist, I welcome LGBTQ+ individuals and couples, as well as people in non-monogamous and polyamorous relationships. I offer an affirming, nonjudgmental space to explore identity, intimacy, boundaries, trust, communication, and the unique dynamics that shape your relationships. I believe there is no single right way to build a relationship, and our work together will honor your values, needs, and the kind of connection you want to create.
I earned my Master of Social Work degree from the University of Southern California. I bring curiosity, compassion, and respect for each person’s unique story to my work, and I strive to create a space where you can show up as you are and explore difficult experiences at a pace that feels right for you.
Outside of sessions, you can usually find me curled up with a good book, spending time with my family and my two dogs, or hosting a game night with friends. I believe joy, play, and genuine connection are essential parts of a meaningful life, and I hope to bring that same warmth and humanity into our work together.