Shayla is a board-certified, licensed art therapist specializing in military and veteran mental health, trauma, anxiety, chronic stress, and substance use. Her work integrates art therapy with yoga, mindfulness, and best practices in brain injury care to support holistic healing and 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, a 501(c)3 nonprofit. She serves annually as a subject-matter expert for the Art Therapy Credentials Board, as a grant panelist for Creative Forces, and as a judge for the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation Annual Awards.