Dr. Kelsi A. Clayson

Starting therapy comes with many questions: Who should I see? Will it be helpful? Will I feel understood? So much depends on the level of trust and comfort you feel with your therapist. The heart of my work lies in creating a space that allows you to feel seen, understood, and energized to approach life in new and meaningful ways.

My therapeutic style is warm, collaborative, and relational with a touch of humor. I guide clients through a range of issues including unresolved trauma, anxiety, depression, relational conflict, and challenging life transitions (specialties). I focus on attending to patterns in your life that are serving you, as well as those that are getting in the way of where you want to be. My clinical approach is shaped by my training in several evidence-based therapies with careful attention to your unique needs, values, and goals. It is my sincere hope that you feel empowered to envision bold changes in your life as you take this important step toward healing and growth.

Education and Training

  • Bachelor of Arts in Psychology- University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
  • Master of Science in Clinical Psychology- Baylor University
  • Doctor of Psychology- Baylor University
  • Postdoctoral Residency, Women’s Mental Health and Trauma- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, VA Long Beach Healthcare System
Kelsi Clayson, PsyD, licensed psychologist providing individual and couples therapy in Wesley Chapel

Kelsi Clayson, Psy.D.

Licensed Clinical Psychologist

Florida License Number: PY 10776

(813) 702-3326

Gaelle El Helou

Hi there! It can often feel like a vulnerable step to start therapy, and I’m glad you are here. My approach to therapy is grounded in warmth, curiosity, and respect. I work with individuals experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship difficulties, as well as those navigating the stress of challenging life transitions. I view therapy not as a process of “fixing what’s wrong with you”, but instead as a process of collaboratively uncovering and addressing the experiences, beliefs, and emotional habits that have shaped your current challenges.

I integrate evidence-based therapies in my work with clients – including Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – in a flexible and collaborative way that is always tailored to your needs. In our work together, we’ll explore internalized and habitual patterns of responding that are keeping you stuck, while also building skills for greater awareness, resilience, and more authentic connection . As a doctoral extern, I maintain a small caseload that allows me to provide focused, individualized care at an affordable rate. I’m honored to walk alongside clients as they take this important step toward growth and healing.

Education and Training

  • Bachelor of Arts in Psychology – Lebanese American University
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology (expected 2027) – University of South Florida
Psychology Practicum Trainee Wesley Chapel, FL

Gaelle El Helou

Doctoral Extern

(813) 803-2253