Team Spotlight – Kaisha A. Thomas, Ph.D., LMFT, LMHC, NCC, CCMHC, SAP

Kaisha serves as Program Director on our main campus, working primarily with older adults. Her extensive clinical and teaching experience spans more than sixteen years, and her numerous professional certifications and licensures reflect her expertise in the field of addiction. After obtaining her Bachelor of Fine Arts in dance from The Julliard School in 1987 and her Master of Science in dance/movement therapy from the Hunter College of the City University of New York in 1991, she earned a post-master’s certificate in mental health and aging. Five years later she obtained both a Master of Science in mental health counseling. This was followed by a Doctor of Philosophy in marriage and family therapy from Nova Southeastern University in 2010.

What brought you to the field of addiction treatment? What brought you to Hanley?  

My core belief in being of service is what brought me to the field of mental health and substance use disorder treatment over 22 years ago. I am reminded of the quote by John F. Kennedy: “To whom much is given, much is expected.” Trying to help individuals, couples and families live full and meaningful lives drives my passion and commitment to the work. Hanley has a great reputation. The high caliber of clinical practice and commitment to evidence-based practices, coupled with the passion and commitment of the staff, ensures that clients are getting the best treatment available. I am excited to be a part of such a great team.

If there was only one thing you could tell us about working within your specialty area, what would it be?

Working in my field keeps me humble by giving me a different perspective. It is an honor and a privilege that clients allow me into their lives and share their deepest, darkest secrets and struggles in an effort to have positive change. Their stories of resilience inspire gratitude for my own life. There is nothing as rewarding as knowing clients have made the changes they wanted.

What have you learned through your experience working in treatment?

Everyone has the ability to change.

Do you hold any credentials or certifications? Do you participate in any professional activities outside of work? If so, please tell us a little bit about them. 

I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC), a Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CCMHC), and a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP). I’m also a state-approved Qualified Supervisor for LMHC/LMFTs, an American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy

Approved Supervisor, and an Infant Mental Health Specialist. I’m trained in Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and specialize in critical incident stress management, medical family therapy and hypnosis. I also have a small private practice: Kat Psychotherapy.

I worked for seven years in a program that allowed women in treatment to stay with their newborn and infant babies. I also spent several years working with first responders, child survivors of sexual abuse, adults molested as children, and survivors of human trafficking, domestic violence and other traumas. Additionally, I served on local boards/committees including the Human Trafficking Task Force of Palm Beach County and the State and Palm Beach County Child Abuse Death Review Committees.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time? Do you spend time with family? Do you have any pets or engage in special hobbies? Feel free to tell us more about your life outside of work.

I love spending time with my husband of 24 years and our children. We will become empty nesters this year. I was a professional dancer, so I enjoy dancing and supporting the performing arts by attending performances and the theatre. I love doing artwork, specifically batik printing.

Hanley Center is a well-known care provider offering a range of treatment programs targeting the recovery from substance use, mental health issues, and beyond. Our primary mission is to provide a clear path to a life of healing and restoration. We offer renowned clinical care and have the compassion and professional expertise to guide you toward lasting recovery.

For information on our programs, call us today: 561-841-1033.