PLAINFIELD, IL, February 06, 2026 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Simone M. Ayala has been selected for inclusion in Marquis Who's Who. As in all Marquis Who's Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.

Ms. Ayala has established a distinguished career in the field of mental health, marked by her commitment to helping others and her expertise in anxiety, depression, personality disorders and mood disorders. Since 2024, she has served as a clinical therapist at The Therapy Nook, where she is responsible for preparing for client sessions, developing individualized treatment strategies and providing psychoeducation. Her daily routine includes seeing approximately seven clients, researching medications and diagnoses, studying neuropsychology to enhance therapeutic outcomes and maintaining detailed clinical notes. Ms. Ayala's dedication to her clients is evident in her approach to therapy, which emphasizes understanding each individual's unique needs and fostering lasting change.

The founding of her private practice stands as Ms. Ayala's most significant professional achievement. Despite initial apprehensions about managing the business aspects of a practice—such as billing and client acquisition—she has successfully built a thriving client base without advertising. Many of her current clients sought her out because of positive experiences in previous therapeutic relationships, including individuals who returned to her care years later. This enduring impact underscores the trust and respect she has cultivated throughout her career.

Prior to establishing The Therapy Nook, Ms. Ayala worked as a clinical therapist at Edgewood Clinical Services, now LifeStance Health Inc., in Plainfield, Illinois, from 2020 to 2025. In this role, she provided comprehensive mental health services within a community setting, further honing her skills in addressing complex psychological issues.

From 2014 to 2024, Ms. Ayala authored works with Tate Publishing, including the book "Praying to God for the Devil" published in 2014. Her writing reflects her deep understanding of human behavior and emotional resilience.

Between 2013 and 2024, she contributed as a youth care worker at ChildServe, supporting young people through challenging circumstances and promoting their well-being. Concurrently, she managed office operations at Taurus Security Rolling Shutters from 2011 to 2024, demonstrating versatility and leadership outside the clinical environment.

Ms. Ayala founded Hope For Knowledge in 2009 and served as its chief executive officer and president through 2024. Under her leadership, the organization focused on educational initiatives and community outreach.

Her earlier roles include serving as a clinical therapist at Our Children's Homestead from 2015 to 2020 and at TriCity Family Services during an overlapping period. She also worked as a lifestyle coach with Pro Active Kids from 2014 to 2020 and as a mental health therapist at TNN from 2013 to 2020. At PC Psychotherapy from 2016 to 2017, she provided specialized therapeutic interventions for diverse populations.

Ms. Ayala began her professional journey as an addiction counseling intern at Gateway in 2011 and as a social services therapist with Family Service Association in 2009. Each position contributed valuable experience that shaped her holistic approach to mental health care.

Her professional development is further evidenced by her longstanding membership with the National Board for Certified Counselors, Inc. and Affiliates since 2012.

Ms. Ayala's academic background laid the foundation for her achievements in counseling and psychology. She earned a Master of Science in Education in psychology and counseling from Northern Illinois University in DeKalb in 2009 after completing a Bachelor's degree in psychology at the same institution in 2004. She began her undergraduate studies at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale before transferring to Northern Illinois University to be closer to family, a decision that influenced both her personal growth and professional direction.

She holds a certification in addiction and drug counseling with a focus on addiction prevention and treatment from College of DuPage, as well as a neuropsychology certification from the National Board for Certified Counselors, Inc. and Affiliates. These credentials have enabled Ms. Ayala to address complex cases involving substance use disorders and neurological factors affecting mental health.

Her adaptability and resilience have been instrumental throughout her career. Having migrated from Trinidad and Tobago to the United States at a pivotal age, Ms. Ayala developed a unique multicultural perspective that informs her work with diverse populations. Her extensive experience across hospitals, private practices and community organizations has equipped her with the skills necessary to meet clients where they are, whether they are teenagers navigating adolescence or adults facing life transitions.

Beyond her professional responsibilities, Ms. Ayala is committed to civic engagement and service. She provides pro bono therapy through Open Path Psychotherapy Collective for individuals unable to afford mental health care. As a volunteer with her local church, she offers mental health services to community members in need. In 2014, she tutored at Cornerstone Community Outreach, further demonstrating her dedication to education and empowerment.

Ms. Ayala's creative pursuits include authoring "Praying to God for the Devil," which explores themes of faith, adversity and personal transformation.

In her personal life, Ms. Ayala is devoted to her three children—two sons aged six and nine and a daughter aged four—as of 2026. She enjoys traveling, reading, writing, spending time with family and friends, watching comedies and finding joy through laughter.

Looking ahead, Ms. Ayala remains focused on expanding access to mental health resources for younger populations by facilitating group activities centered on neuropsychology and emotional intelligence within schools. She is dedicated to equipping children with essential skills for emotional regulation so they can achieve their goals while maintaining balance amid modern challenges such as social media influences.

Ms. Ayala's unwavering commitment to helping others continues to define both her professional journey and personal philosophy, demonstrating that genuine fulfillment comes from making a meaningful difference in the lives of those she serves.

About Marquis Who's Who®:
Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who's Who in America®, Marquis Who's Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field of endeavor, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. Who's Who in America® remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms around the world. The suite of Marquis® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who's Who® website, www.marquiswhoswho.com.

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