Welcome to my homepage! Here is a quick bio so you can get to know a bit about me!
I am Martha Ochoa-Leyva (She/Ella), a proud Mexican-born immigrant who has spent most of my life in the beautiful state of Oregon. My Indigenous heritage (Nahua) profoundly influences how I engage with the world around me, shaping my interactions in both academic and professional spheres. I wear many hats: an aunt, partner, friend, activist, educator, therapist, advocate, and, most importantly, a social disruptor who is not afraid to challenge the status quo.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I bring over fifteen years of experience in the Human Services field, specializing in working with migrant and immigrant families, early childhood development, and supporting transgender and gender non-conforming youth along with their families. I’m deeply passionate about driving initiatives that promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice in the educational system.
I’m thrilled to serve as a Climate and Culture Specialist with the Multnomah Education Service District (MESD) and share my knowledge as a part-time faculty member in the Child and Family Services program at Portland Community College (PCC). Every day, I embrace the opportunity to empower others and make a meaningful impact in our communities!