"Owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing we'll ever do."

I understand that speaking to a stranger about your past, being vulnerable, and sharing your life story can feel scary. Congratulations for being brave and taking this first step to work on your emotional health and well-being. I want to empower you to learn more about mental health and explore how your history impacts your present and your future. I prioritize providing you with an empathetic, non-judgmental environment to explore your life story. I can help you deal with issues related to: anxiety, coping with chronic health conditions, depression, emotional regulation, life transitions, relationship struggles, trauma, and PTSD.

I am a dedicated Latinx therapist with years of experience. I am bilingual in English and Spanish. I obtained a master's degree in clinical social work from New York University. bachelor’s degree I have worked in hospitals, residential settings and outpatient programs. I specialize in: cognitive behavioral therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), psychodynamic theories, and trauma-informed care.

I look forward to helping you achieve balance, build-self-awareness, improve relationships, develop coping skills, and achieve your overall goals. It will be my pleasure to answer any questions that you may have regarding the therapeutic process. Please contact me to schedule a consultation. Contácteme en Español si tiene preguntas. 

Certifications and Memberships:

• Licensed Clinical Social Worker, New Jersey. 
• Licensed Clinical Social Work Supervisor.
• Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
• Certified School Social Worker.
• Certified Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
• Certified in Advanced Assessment and Diagnosis. 
• Certified in Biopsychosocial Assessment.
• Certified in Mental Health First Aid.
• Trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
• Member, National Association of Social Workers.
• Member, New Jersey Association of Women Therapists.
• Member, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) International Association.
• Member, Latino Mental Health Association of New Jersey.
• Member, Latinx Practice Collective.

I understand that seeking support can be challenging, and I'm here to provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space for you to explore your feelings and experiences. I have extensive experience in providing both individual and group therapy. I specialize in helping individuals, like you, navigate life’s toughest transitions—whether moving from student life to the workforce or processing the impact of domestic violence and trauma.  I am committed to fostering a therapeutic environment where you feel understood, supported, and empowered to navigate life's challenges.

As a bilingual Licensed Social Worker, fluent in English and Spanish, I specialize in working with adults facing anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, and the effects of trauma and domestic violence. My approach goes beyond traditional talk therapy; I utilize a combination of solution-focused, trauma-informed, and strengths-based techniques to help you gain insight, build resilience, and achieve your goals.

I believe in the power of therapy to transform lives, and I am here to support you on your journey toward healing and growth. If you are ready to take the next step, please contact me to schedule a consultation. Contácteme en Español si tiene preguntas. 

Credentials and Memberships: 

• Licensed Social Worker, New Jersey.
• Emergency Medical Technician, New Jersey.
• Member, National Association of Social Workers.
• Trained by the New Jersey Victim Assistance Academy. 

Publications:

• Ayala, K. (September, 2022). A Social Worker’s Reflections on Hispanic Heritage Month. NASW-NJ FOCUS Magazine.