Lessons from Local Leaders:

Kaylie Groenhout

Rewriting the Map: How Kaylie Groenhout of Wildwood Psychotherapy Helps Clients Navigate Growth, Trauma & Transitions

Kaylie Groenhout, founder of Wildwood Psychotherapy in downtown Leesburg, is redefining what it means to show up—both as a therapist and as a fellow human on the journey. With a background in communication and early work as a doula, Kaylie brings a unique blend of grounded empathy and evidence-based therapeutic modalities to her practice with adults and couples. Her goal? To help people rewrite the internal “maps” they’ve been carrying since childhood—maps that no longer align with who they are or where they’re headed.

Her path to private practice was shaped by both personal experience and professional burnout. “I wanted to be present for my family and still walk alongside people during deeply meaningful moments,” she shared. That desire led her to return to school and ultimately open Wildwood Psychotherapy, where she has full control over her caseload, hours, and approach.

Kaylie specializes in trauma work using EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and the Gottman Method. Her training began in a trauma-focused internship where EMDR transformed how she saw healing take place. “It was a game changer,” she said. “Not just in how I work with clients, but how I see the whole process of healing unfold.” She emphasizes that healing isn’t about telling someone they’re safe—it’s about helping their brain and body realize it for themselves.

As a clinician, Kaylie rejects the expert-on-a-pedestal dynamic. “I’m a fellow journeyer. I’m not here to tell anyone what to do. I’m here to co-pilot,” she explained. Her sessions are deeply relational, gently walking the line between validation and challenge. “If someone doesn’t feel safe with me, we’re not doing any meaningful work.”

In addition to one-on-one therapy, Kaylie has built a thriving community for mental health professionals in Loudoun County. She co-hosts a quarterly networking lunch that now draws nearly 30 clinicians—a space for collaboration, referrals, and connection in what can often be an isolating profession.

Her practice also includes therapy intensives—multi-hour sessions designed for clients who want to dive deep into specific challenges or can’t commit to weekly therapy. She describes it as “rolling up your sleeves and doing the work,” offering flexibility for those navigating complex schedules or craving accelerated growth.

Outside of the therapy room, Kaylie offers community events like mindfulness “breathing rooms” and guided book clubs—accessible entry points for those curious about personal growth but not yet ready for traditional therapy. These offerings reflect her commitment to inclusion, accessibility, and genuine human connection.

Through it all, Kaylie stays grounded by setting firm boundaries around her clinical hours and prioritizing her own self-care through gardening, concerts, and time with her family. “I can’t do good work if I’m not well,” she said simply. “Clients don’t just want advice—they want to borrow some of your calm.”

Her message to those feeling stuck? “You don’t have to wait until you’re falling apart to get help. Come as you are. This work can be done before crisis—and sometimes that’s when it’s most impactful.”

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