Shayla is a board-certified, licensed art therapist specializing in military and veteran mental health, with clinical expertise in trauma, anxiety, chronic stress, substance use, and brain injury care. Her work integrates art therapy with yoga and mindfulness practices to support holistic healing and psychological resilience. She earned her master’s degree in Counseling and Art Therapy from Eastern Virginia Medical School and is currently pursuing a doctorate in Counseling and Psychological Studies at Regent University.

Shayla holds a gubernatorial appointment to Virginia’s Advisory Board for Art Therapy and serves on the board of directors for The Art Therapy Project. She serves annually as a subject-matter expert for the Art Therapy Credentials Board, a grant panelist for the Creative Forces Community Engagement Grant, and a judge for the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation Annual Awards Program.

In addition to her clinical work, Shayla brings more than a decade of experience in nonprofit operations and fundraising. This dual expertise enables her to bridge clinical insight and organizational strategy, translating community and client needs into mission-driven initiatives and sustainable philanthropic partnerships.