Kimberlee Barrella Ph.D., LPCC-S

Director of Professional Engagement

Clinical Counselor and Supervisor

She/Her

Kim is a licensed professional clinical counselor and supervisor in the state of Ohio. She earned both her Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and her Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education and Supervision from Kent State University. In addition to her work at Navigate, Kim is core faculty in the Counselor Education and Supervision program at Kent State University, where she teaches and supervises counselors-in-training. Her professional interests include counselor development, clinical supervision, motivational interviewing, and supporting the continued development of evidence-based practices.

Theoretical Approach & Philosophies of Counseling:

The way I approach counseling—and people in general—is very much grounded in a humanistic lens. I value genuineness, authenticity, autonomy, and strong therapeutic relationships. My goal is to create a nonjudgmental and caring space where others can feel safe enough to show up as they are and that their voice will be heard.

I believe people are most able to grow when they feel understood, supported, and empowered to make their own choices. My role is not to tell you what your life should look like or decide what is best for you. I think of counseling as walking alongside you: helping you better understand yourself, explore what matters to you, work through the things that may be getting in your way, and develop the tools you need to move toward the life you want.

At the end of the day, you are the expert on your own life. I’m here to bring clinical knowledge, curiosity, honesty, and support to the process while we figure things out together.

Specialty Areas & Client Focus

My clinical work is particularly focused on identity exploratin and development, including work with:

  • Adolescents, emerging adults, and college students

  • Women

  • LGBTGEQIAP+ individuals

  • Anxiety and stress management

  • Relationship patterns, communication, and attachment

  • Life transitions

My clinical approach integrates Motivational Interviewing (MI), EMDR, humanistic/person-centered approaches, and other evidence-based interventions based on each client’s needs and goals.

About Me:

Northeast Ohio has always been home, and I have a particular soft spot for Cuyahoga Falls. I love the hiking and biking trails, local restaurants and shops, and community events—and I remain pretty convinced that very few problems can’t be made at least a little better by visiting a favorite local spot with good company.

Around the office, I’ve also earned a reputation as the resident “crazy plant lady,” which is probably fair. There was a period during my doctorate when I may have spent more time researching and tending to my plants than my dissertation. 😬 The dissertation did eventually win, though!

Outside of work, I love spending time with my husband, our family and friends, and our cats, Pearl (AKA Widdle Pea) and Opal (AKA Opie Bad Butt). After busy days, you can usually find us trying a new recipe, playing video games, or just enjoying some time at home together.