Local Artist Kenny Davis Donates Painting to Baylor Center for Developmental Disabilities Clinic in Heartfelt Thanks

For Kenny Davis, a local autistic adult and gifted artist, counseling at the Baylor Center for Developmental Disabilities (BCDD) has been life-changing. To express his deep gratitude for the care and support he received, Davis recently donated a painting to the Center in honor of his therapist, Kayla Trites.

Trites, an ACT LEND Graduate, BCDD Fellow, and fourth-year doctoral student in School Psychology at Baylor University, has been working with Davis over the past two years as part of her clinical training. She will soon depart for her internship at Fraser Clinical Psychology in Bloomington, Minnesota—but her impact will remain at the Center through Davis’ meaningful gift.

“She has changed my life and has helped me with a lot of things over the past two years,” said Davis. “A lot of it was basic. She helped me to be more confident and learn better boundaries, which helped me get a new, higher-paying job. I’m very thankful for how much she’s helped me with my relationship with myself and my diagnosis. She was always very supportive, open, and nonjudgmental, which made me feel comfortable and willing to open up to her.”

The painting, now displayed at the Center clinic, represents more than artistic talent—it reflects the personal growth Davis has experienced through his therapeutic journey. His progress is also a testament to the dedication of the professionals at the Center.

While the artwork stands as a thank-you to Trites, she credits Davis for his transformation.

“While Kenny credits me for the big changes in his life, he really is the one responsible for them,” said Trites. “I may have guided him, but he really put in the work! Over the last few years, I have watched him grow into an independent, confident, and organized man. He has been a fantastic participant in therapy, always coming prepared and ready to tackle our sessions, even on the hard days.”

Trites also expressed gratitude to her colleagues and mentors at the Center. “I am so grateful for the experience to work with Kenny, and I have learned so much about effective client care through this experience. I would like to thank my amazing supervisors and collaborators at the Baylor Center for Developmental Disabilities—I couldn't have worked so effectively without you!”

The Center, an extension of Baylor University’s School of Education, is dedicated to promoting the flourishing of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families through clinical service, research, and community collaboration. Kenny Davis also serves on the Center’s Community Advisory Council, continuing to advocate for inclusion and understanding.

As Trites begins a new chapter in her career, Davis’ painting remains a lasting reminder of the power of empathy, growth, and connection.

“It’s more than just a gift,” said Center Director, Kristen Padilla, “It’s a reflection of what happens when people are truly seen, heard, and supported.”

Davis’ artwork can be viewed on his Instagram account: @painting_on_the_spectrum.