Hello community!

My name is Khyla Rie Horton. I am a current graduate student at USC getting my Master’s of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy.

I am an aspiring performing artist—singer, songwriter, actress, dancer, and have a vision to be able to support myself and my community in therapy and the performing arts.

Why This Dream Matters

As we know, therapy is not always accessible (culturally, financially, or geographically) to BIPOC and LGBTIA+ communities of color, and so creative expression has often been a facilitator and catalyst in my healing journey and for many, the only way to make sense of pain. After completing my Bachelor's, concentrating in social behavioral sciences with a global education perspective, from Soka University of America, I pursued my first master’s degree in African American Studies to deepen my understanding of liberation, identity, and systemic injustice. Now, I’m returning to school to become a licensed therapist — with a mission to integrate dance, acting, music, and storytelling into trauma-informed care.

I want to offer healing that is not only clinical, but creative. Culturally responsive. Spiritually affirming. Joy-centered.

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Why I Need Support

I was in a car accident earlier this year that left me emotionally and financially strained. I also recently had to say goodbye to my grandfather’s home — a beautiful legacy in Baldwin Hills — due to a reverse mortgage we couldn’t maintain. On top of everything, I’ve been navigating deep personal heartbreak and grief while preparing to start school.

USC’s MFT program is a full-time commitment. While student loans and financial aid cover my tuition, with this political climate, I am left without enough support for living expenses, health care, transportation, books, and daily essentials. I’ve been applying for scholarships, odd jobs, and resources, but it’s not enough.

What Your Support Will Help With:

• Housing and utilities

• Monthly health insurance ($270/month)

• Transportation to and from campus (I commute from the Valley)

• Books and course materials

• Groceries and basic needs

• Emotional bandwidth to focus on school without burning out

My Commitment to You

Your contribution supports more than one student — it supports every future client, community member, and creative collaborator I will work with. I am committed to using this degree not only to serve but to reimagine what healing can look like when art and activism are part of the process.

If you’ve ever been moved by my performances, my music, or felt inspired by a conversation, or believe in the power of Black, queer healing — this is your invitation to be part of that journey with me.

Any amount helps, and if you’re unable to give financially, sharing this campaign, my music, or sending words of encouragement also means the world.

With deep gratitude,

Khyla Rie Horton

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