Meet Maria Pia Ayala, LCSW, DSW-C
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About Maria Pia Ayala, LCSW, DSW-C
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A few words about me
I’m Maria Pia Ayala — a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, doctoral candidate in Social Work, and first-generation Latina professional dedicated to building more inclusive, equitable, and purpose-driven spaces.
For over 15 years, I’ve worked at the intersection of mental health, leadership development, and systems change — serving as both a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Clinical Supervisor. My passion for justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) isn’t just professional — it’s deeply personal. As someone who has navigated the barriers of representation, identity, and belonging, I’ve made it my mission to help others
feel seen, supported, and empowered in their work.
I founded MPA Strategies and Solutions to bridge gaps in mentorship, leadership, and workforce equity — with a focus on creating inclusive systems where professionals from all backgrounds can thrive. Whether I’m training teams on belonging, designing mentorship programs, or advising leaders on inclusive strategies, I bring a collaborative, culturally responsive approach to everything I do.
At my core, I believe representation is not just about presence — it’s about purpose and transformation. I created this consulting practice to help others lead boldly, build systems that work for everyone, and step fully into the work they were meant to do.
This is
Ways to Work Together
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Resource & Curriculum Development
Reflective tools, digital workbooks, and culturally responsive materials designed to support inclusive training and mentorship efforts.
Thought Partnership & Strategic Consulting
Co-create strategy with me. I offer collaborative sessions for DEI planning, workforce design, and change leadership with a human-centered approach.
Justice, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (JEDI) Training
Empower your organization with interactive, evidence-based trainings that go beyond checkboxes. Current offerings include workshops on belonging, identity, psychological safety, and culturally responsive practices — all rooted in research and real-world experience.
Mentorship Program Design with Affinity Group Integration
I build inclusive mentorship programs that center identity, connection, and representation. My innovation integrates affinity group structures to foster deeper belonging, peer support, and professional identity development.
Leadership Development & Workforce Strategy
Supporting mental health professionals and mission-driven organizations in developing inclusive leadership pipelines, improving retention, and advancing equitable career growth.
My expertise
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