Ayla is a Northern Nevada local. She pursued her higher education journey at the University of Nevada, Reno, earning a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies alongside a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a certificate in Prevention and Addiction Treatment Services in 2015. 

During her undergraduate years, Ayla completed impactful internships at Early Head Start and Children’s Cabinet, gaining valuable experience in early childhood education and support services. Her career began as a Psychosocial Rehabilitation/Basic Skills Trainer, where she passionately assisted emotionally disturbed children and adolescents transitioning from acute psychiatric hospitalization. Ayla also dedicated herself to empowering adults with intellectual disabilities to enhance their independent living skills.

Continuing her commitment to supporting vulnerable populations, Ayla joined Rite of Passage, where she mentored at-risk youth, foster children, victims of human trafficking, and juveniles within the criminal justice system. Her dedication to serving others led her to pursue further certification as an Alcohol and Drug Counselor, which she achieved in 2020 through a supervised internship at The Life Change Center. 

Ayla’s journey expanded as she pursued her Master of Social Work degree from the University of Nevada, Reno, during which she completed internships with The Life Change Center and the Reno VA’s homeless outreach team. 

Beyond her professional endeavors, Ayla finds joy in spending time with her family, reading, playing video games, gardening, and baking. She actively participates in community service as a Big Sister with Big Brothers Big Sisters, where she delights in introducing her Little to new experiences. Ayla’s advocacy extends to national platforms, having been selected as a 2024 Rising Voices participant with Project Sleep, where she raises awareness about Narcolepsy and Sleep Apnea.

Ayla’s approach to therapy is driven by her passion for meeting clients where they are and empowering them to achieve their full potential. Her dedication to the transformative power of therapy shines through in every aspect of her professional and personal life.