Shayla is a board-certified, licensed art therapist specializing in trauma, addiction, anxiety, and chronic stress. She draws on advanced certifications in yoga, mindfulness, and brain injury care to deliver integrative, whole-person treatment that builds resilience at every stage of the therapeutic process. Shayla holds a master's degree in Counseling & Art Therapy from Eastern Virginia Medical School and is currently completing her doctorate in Counseling & Psychological Studies at Regent University.

Beyond her clinical work, Shayla brings more than a decade of nonprofit experience in program management and fundraising, helping organizations translate compelling visions into sustainable impact. She 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 also volunteers with the Art Therapy Credentials Board, Creative Forces, the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation, and Alliance of Therapy Dogs. Across these roles, Shayla works to advance programs that empower individuals, strengthen communities, and drive enduring change in the field of mental health.