Ashley Rakay
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in PA and have my Board Certification in Dance/Movement Therapy. I have been practicing for 13 years, and look forward to meeting you. My goal is to provide a safe place for us to talk, laugh, cry, make jokes, dance, wiggle, draw, listen, reflect, and work towards whole body healing.
Further, my 39 years as a dancer/artist have helped influence my practice, as I enjoy utilizing movement, arts, and play while we explore what works (and doesn't) together.
When I am not working, I like reading, watching horror movies, playing with my cats, and hanging out with my kids.
First session
In our initial session together, we can get to know one another, ask questions, and see if we are a good fit. I will also review my treatment policies, such as 24 hour cancelation/ no show fees, HIPAA compliance, and the importance of your safety and wellbeing. Moving forward, we will begin discussing what brought you to therapy and what goals you might have in mind so we can set up a treatment plan that best meets your needs. As a creative individual, I really love to utilize the arts in all forms as a way to explore and express oneself when words aren't enough.
Strengths
After 13 years in the field and working through a pandemic, I have learned how to adapt my skills as a movement therapist and tailor them for each individual and circumstance. Further, my 39 years as a dancer/artist have helped influence my practice, as I enjoy utilizing movement, art, and play while we explore what works (and doesn't) together. I am encouraging and supportive, trauma informed and here for every step of your personal therapeutic journey.
Ideal clients
I enjoy working with individuals who are willing to explore and have a little fun. This could be creative young adults to elder individuals who may need some support with anxiety, depression, developmental delays/challenges, life changes, difficulty finding balance and a stride, and feeling lost and/or disconnected. I've recently begun working with new families, and helping normalize the feelings associated with this dynamic shift. My mind-body approach will help us establish some balance and work on integrating all the parts of oneself in order to feel more whole and connected.
Treatment methods
Person-centered (Rogerian)
I approach each and every client through a person-centered lens, knowing each client is the expert in their own lives. Naturally, I meet each client where they are in their journey to establish rapport, and begin working toward healthy growth and change. My background as a Dance/Movement Therapist provides me with an additional approach to utilize in session. This may include body based interventions to increase body and emotional awareness, regulation strategies and support the mind-body connection.
Location
Virtual sessions
Identifies as
White
Woman
Top specialties
Anxiety
Coping Skills
Parenting
Other specialties
Autism
Learning Disabilities
Mood Disorders
Self Esteem
Women's Issues
Serves
Adults (18 to 64)
Elders (65 and above)
Teenagers (13 to 17)
Licensed in
PennsylvaniaLicense PC009870