Maria Estela Ayala, LPC-Associate

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor - Associate (Supervised by Rene Garcia , LPC-S, LMFT-S, LCDC) and graduated from Southern Methodist University, where I specialized in Mental Health and Secondary School Counseling. I received my Bachelor of Arts degree from Austin College in Business Administration and French Language & Culture. I have experience working with teens and pre-teens who struggle with symptoms of depression and anxiety related to school challenges and/or unexpected life events. Additionally, I have experience working with women in all stages who have experienced emotional abuse, who struggle in relationships and who have experienced a chaotic childhood. I enjoy working with women who experience symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD and/or complex trauma. I particularly enjoy working with first-generation Americans and multilingual individuals and families, as I, myself speak Spanish and French. My work with you is rooted in compassion and empowerment. Recognizing the complexity of our existence, I use a variety of techniques to help you process your lived experience. I help you connect to the present moment and challenge distorted thinking. We examine the story you tell yourself. I use CBT, various Gestalt techniques, and mindfulness. I am currently being trained ( to be completed in March 2026) in EMDR to help those who struggle with complex trauma. One of the greatest honors for me as a therapist is to be by your side as you struggle with some of the most challenging moments of you life. I strive to create a space that is healing, filled with compassion and that empowers you to take control of your life. As your therapist, you can expect me to hold a sacred space to explore your deepest feelings and experiences without judgement. I have a strong belief that behaviors usually fulfill a need, and we work collaboratively to identify your needs and replace self-sabotaging behaviors with behaviors that feel more aligned with your values and congruent with you. If you'd like to chat about working together, schedule your free consultation - I'd love to answer any questions you may have! Past experience includes : Cannenta Center for Healing and Empowerment SMU Center for Family Counseling Ursuline Academy of Dallas The Lamplighter School Sliding scale is available - please contact Estela directly.