Alisa (she/her/hers) is a doctoral candidate in the Counseling Psychology program at University of Georgia with a background in Human Development, Speech Pathology and Theology. Before pursuing her doctoral degree, Castilla worked for over seven years as a speech language pathologist with families and children of low socioeconomic status in South Dekalb County, GA. Additionally, she continues to engage in teaching ministry in Atlanta. As a practitioner and researcher, Castilla values honoring the stories of others, fostering connection and promoting holistic wellbeing. Clinically, these values have a particular focus toward fostering sacred space for healing for Black women, individuals across the lifespan living with chronic pain and illness, and caregivers to children living with disabilities. Alisa is a former Nia Project graduate practicum student.