Kayla

MSN, APRN, FNP-C

Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner

Founder of Stratera Wellness and Recovery

Specializing in functional medicine, hormone optimization, peptide therapy, gut health, IV therapy, and root-cause healing across the lifespan.

Over the summer,

we hosted a panel on Health and Wellness at our social nights, and Kayla spoke about women’s health, particularly hormone challenges.

A month before the event, I had the opportunity to meet with her, and her personal story of resilience and determination in seeking better health care is nothing short of remarkable. She took charge of her health and discovered a passion for education in the process. Kayla has become a powerful force in our community, embodying the spirit of overcoming challenges and empowering others, both young and old, to forge their own paths to wellness.

Motivated

What motivated you to become a Nurse Practitioner in Health and Wellness?

I understand the importance of patients feeling heard and supported throughout their health journey. It’s not just about providing medication; it’s about being a partner in their care; I genuinely want to walk alongside each individual, helping them discover the root causes of their challenges and working together to create a personalized recovery plan that respects their unique experiences and aspirations. Every story matters, and I’m here to honor that in our work together.

Over-All Health

How do you help clients break down their goals and ensure long-term lifestyle changes?

We simplify the process by identifying priorities, setting measurable milestones, and supporting behavior changes through education and accountability. Healing is layered, so I meet patients where they are to avoid overwhelming them.

What does client-centered care look like?

Client-centered care is about building trust, listening more than talking, and creating plans that reflect the individual—not just their lab results. I focus on helping individuals who are seeking to improve their lives, rather than just addressing their diseases.

How important is the connection between overall health and mental health?

They are biologically and emotionally intertwined. Inflammation, nutrient depletion, and hormonal shifts can impact mood, sleep, and cognition. Supporting mental health is essential for truly restoring physical health.

Real Answers

Why is having access to targeted care so important?

Where should people start?

Vague symptoms deserve real answers.

Begin by requesting thorough lab tests, monitoring your symptoms closely, and seeking a healthcare provider who takes a holistic approach—one who values both the data and your personal experiences equally. This collaborative effort can lead to more effective care.

______

I envision more access, more education, and less band-aid medicine. I want holistic care to become the standard rather than the exception, enabling patients to thrive rather than just to survive.

You are the Co-Owner of Stratera Wellness and Recovery. What services do you offer?

We provide comprehensive care, encompassing functional labs, peptide protocols, hormone optimization, IV therapy, gut healing, detoxification plans, and recovery support. Every treatment is personalized and focused on restoring long-term vitality.

What advice would you give to someone hesitant or concerned about tackling their health issues?

Start small. The people who try to make a full 180 turn are rarely the ones who stay consistent long-term. Real, sustainable health changes come from habits that fit into your life. And that won’t look the same for everyone — nor should it. Focus on consistency, not perfectionism. Be honest about what’s realistic for you. Maybe that means a 15-minute workout instead of an hour. Maybe it means stretching while the kids are in the bath or doing a quick garage workout while they play nearby. Health doesn’t have to be glamorous — it just needs to be doable, and it needs to work for you.

For many of my patients, they don’t even know where to start. If this is you, I suggest seeking counsel from a medical professional, a mentor, or even a friend. Often it is incredibly difficult for us to be objective with ourselves. Sometimes we need another point of view to help give us the correct guidance in order to get started.

Also, be very clear with your goals. If you aren’t sure what your goals are, it’s hard to make strategic changes to achieve them. These can change with time, but just saying you want the other energy isn’t measurable. Imagine what your life would be like with better energy. If you want to run and play with your kids and have enough energy to come home, do the laundry, dishes, and cleaning. Then make sure that’s your specific Goal. When you make specific goals, it’s a lot easier to determine what fits into your life and what doesn’t.

Your jealousy of Cindy doing another 5K goes out the window if your goal is to put on muscle mass. Your desire for pizza can be better controlled if your goal is weight loss. If your goal is to come off your anxiety medication, then perhaps that next cup of coffee isn’t the best idea.

When our goals are clear, our actions will follow.

Personal

Our overall health is vital for a long life of wellness, and a key component of this is our mental health. What are some things you do to stay mentally healthy?

For me, mental health is about honoring rhythms over rigid routines. I’ve learned to be flexible — sometimes the priority is quality time with my kids, other times it’s deep focus on work. I set strong boundaries around my calendar and say no when I need to protect my peace. I’ve also learned that making space for myself allows me to show up more fully for others. Whether that’s a walk outside, an early bedtime, or simply unplugging for dinner with my family, it all matters. It’s not about perfection — it’s about giving yourself permission to re-prioritize as life shifts.

How do you reset and take care of yourself?

I move daily, prioritize protein and hydration, research constantly, spend time in nature, and pray often. Most importantly, I reset by being present with my loved ones, especially my three incredible children.

Family

Time

Matters

Last Thoughts

You’re not broken. You’re just missing the right strategy. Keep seeking healing, it is possible! -Kayla

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” — Proverbs 3:5