Meet Your Therapist

A woman with dark curly hair smiling, standing indoors near a bookshelf and a potted plant. Therapy. Alaska.

Hi, I’m Emma Ayala, M.S., LPC.,

I offer trauma-informed, person-centered therapy for children, teens, and adults. My approach is strength-based and grounded in compassion. I’ll meet you wherever you are in life and walk alongside you as you navigate life’s challenges. Whatever you are currently tackling, I believe healing is possible, and you don’t have to go through it alone.

With children and teens, I have experience and training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), CBT, Play Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Interventions, Psychoeducation (related to emotions, trauma, coping skills, etc.), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and Attachment-Based work. I have experience working with children with the following presenting concerns:

  • Depression and Mood Disorders

  • Adjustment Disorders/Life Transitions

  • Trauma and PTSD

  • Behavioral Issues/Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)

  • ADHD

  • Anxiety Disorders (generalized, separation, social)

  • OCD

  • Low self-esteem/Identity

  • Grief and Loss

  • Family Conflict/Divorce stress

  • School Avoidance/Bullying and other peer issues

With adults, I utilize a trauma-informed and strength-based approach to therapy while also integrating evidenced based methods like CBT, Narrative Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), DBT Skills, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Internal Family Systems-Informed Work, and Psychoeducation (related to mental health, emotions, trauma, coping skills, etc.). I have experience working with adults of all ages with the following presenting concerns:

  • Anxiety Disorders (generalized, social, panic attacks)

  • Depression and Mood Disorders

  • Trauma and PTSD

  • Life Transitions (career changes, breakups/divorce, moves)

  • Anger, Chronic Guilt or Shame

  • ADHD (supportive work)

  • Self-Worth and Self Esteem Issues

  • Stress and Burnout

  • Grief and Loss

No matter what population I work with, my work is always grounded in kindness, acceptance, and compassion.

Telehealth services are currently offered through SimplePractice for adolescents (12+) and adults of all ages, providing flexible and accessible care wherever you are in Alaska

In-person therapy in Juneau for children (ages 6+), teens, and adults TBD. Join the waitlist through the Contact Us form and/or Contact Tab or check back soon for updates

Contact

Interested in working together? Fill out some info and I will be in touch shortly. I can’t wait to hear from you!