Hi, I'm Ashley! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Virginia with over 12 years of experience in the mental health field providing a variety of services including crisis intervention, mental health skill building, group therapy, individual therapy, and case management. I've worked in both inpatient and outpatient behavioral health settings including community service boards, non-profits, residential group homes, residential crisis stabilization units, and hospital acute psychiatric units. I have worked with individuals of diverse populations and backgrounds experiencing serious mental illness (such as major depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD), substance use disorders, co-occurring disorders, trauma, domestic violence, etc. I am a trauma-informed, LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist who specializes in mood disorders (including depression and bipolar disorder), anxiety, neurodivergence, substance use, burnout, interpersonal difficulties, life transitions, and stress management.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
I strive to create a safe, inclusive space where you feel heard, understood, and comfortable (but also challenged) so you can openly and honestly express your thoughts and feelings without judgment. My goal is for us to develop a therapeutic and collaborative relationship where we work together to explore what you're going through and work towards your goals. I compare therapy to driving a car. You are behind the wheel as the driver and in charge of taking us to your destination. As your therapist, I'm in the passenger seat, and I'm honored to be along for the ride. I hope to be a support, advocate, and listening ear for you to help you face any bumps in the road along the way.
What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?
I believe in meeting an individual where they are in therapy and utilize a strengths-based, client-centered holistic approach. I tailor my approach to each individual and often utilize a variety of modalities and interventions to best meet each individual's unique needs. Below are treatment approaches I often draw from: Solution-Focused Therapy Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) Psychodynamic therapy Motivational Interviewing
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I would say my biggest strengths are being compassionate, understanding, and holding space for my clients. Life can feel so heavy at times, and during these times it can feel so lonely, so I just want to be there for my clients to remind them they are not alone and to help lighten that heaviness.