Introducing Shayla Hayward-Lundy, MS, LPAT, ATR-BC, New Board Member at The Art Therapy Project

Join us in welcoming Shayla Hayward-Lundy, MS, LPAT, ATR-BC to The Art Therapy Project’s Board of Directors and a member of The Art Therapy Project’s Development and Marketing Committee! Shayla is an experienced licensed art therapist specializing in military and veteran mental health, trauma, anxiety, chronic stress, and substance use. Shayla earned her master’s in Counseling and Art Therapy from Eastern Virginia Medical School and is pursuing a doctorate in Counseling and Psychological Studies at Regent University. She serves as a subject matter expert for the Art Therapy Credentials Board and holds a gubernatorial appointment to Virginia’s Advisory Board for Art Therapy. 

Beyond her clinical practice, Shayla has over a decade of experience in nonprofit operations and fundraising. Her expertise in both mental health and nonprofit management allows her to translate the needs of those she serves into compelling opportunities for philanthropic support. 

 
 

Learn about Shayla’s experience and contributions to TATP’s Board of Directors in the following Q&A: 

  1. What are you most excited to contribute as a new Board member at The Art Therapy Project (TATP)? 
    I was first introduced to The Art Therapy Project as a college volunteer, so returning as a Board member is a full-circle moment. As an art therapist, I have seen firsthand how accessible mental health care can change lives. Alongside my clinical work, I have supported nonprofit operations, development, and community engagement. I am excited to bring both my clinical perspective and nonprofit experience to support TATP’s mission. 


  2. What perspective do you bring to TATP’s Board based on your experience working as an art therapist for military, veteran, and recovery communities? 
    My work with military, veteran, and recovery communities has given me a deep understanding of the unique challenges these populations face in accessing mental health care. I bring a perspective that values programs and services that are both clinically effective and culturally responsive to the real-world experiences of clients. 


  3. What inspired your commitment to working with military and veteran communities? 
    I am the proud daughter of a Marine Corps veteran and grew up in a family deeply rooted in public service. That upbringing shaped both my values and commitment to helping others. I believe that everyone can contribute something meaningful to this world, and I am fortunate to live out that belief through my work. Providing art therapy to service members and veterans, and creating spaces where they can connect, heal, and express themselves, is both a professional calling and a personal honor. 


  4. Knowing that TATP’s roots are in serving female veterans, how does your professional experience connect with and strengthen this aspect of the mission? 
    Women have served this country since 1775, yet their contributions are often minimized or overlooked. Supporting female veterans is especially critical as their service, leadership, and aspirations face increasing challenges. My work has shown me the importance of affirming women’s agency, honoring their service, and providing care that reflects their lived experiences.  


  5. How has your clinical experience influenced your understanding of what meaningful access to mental health care looks like, and why are free, community-based services critical in the current landscape? 
    "Access" is about availability, safety, affordability and relevance. My clinical work has shown me that even when services exist, many people cannot realistically use them due to financial, cultural, or systemic barriers. A low-barrier, community-based model like TATP’s meets people where they are and offers a practical approach to care within an imperfect system. Free services reduce obstacles to entry, normalize mental health support, and foster connection and belonging. These elements are foundational to healing, not optional. 


  6. How do you hope TATP continues to grow its impact in the coming years? 
    I hope TATP continues to expand its reach while staying anchored in clinical integrity and authentic community connection. This includes deepening strategic partnerships, investing in therapist support, and exploring innovative ways to serve increasingly diverse populations. When growth is paired with mission fidelity and sustainable infrastructure, TATP can reach more people without losing the relational, client-centered model that makes its work so impactful. 

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