Hi friend, are you ready to take charge of your life and healing? I became a therapist because I am a passionate advocate for mental health and understand how vital it is especially within the Black Community. While I welcome individuals from all backgrounds, I recognize the unique challenges Black Americans face when it comes to mental health. I believe that our experiences deserve to be acknowledged and addressed by professionals who truly understand us. If you're looking for a space where you feel seen, heard, and supported on your healing journey, I'm here for you. Let's work together to create the change you deserve.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
During our first session, clients can expect to learn more about their therapist and the therapeutic process. We will begin with an initial intake, using a bio-psychosocial assessment to gather detailed information about the client's background, life experiences, and current challenges. This process helps build a comprehensive understanding of the client's unique situation. The session will also include a discussion of the client's goals and expectations for therapy, as well as an overview of what therapy entails and the expectations for both client and therapist. Clients will have the opportunity to ask questions about the therapist's background, experience, and treatment approach to ensure a good fit and build trust from the outset.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
As a therapist, I bring strong communication and active listening skills, ensuring that clients feel heard, understood, and valued. I approach each session with empathy and compassion, creating a safe and nonjudgemental space for clients to explore their thoughts and emotions. I am committed to self-awareness, acknowledging and addressing my own biases to provide equitable and respectful care. Additionally, I practice unconditional positive regard, accepting clients' situations without judgement and supporting their journey towards healing and personal growth.
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
I am well-suited to work with clients who are motivated to change their behaviors and willing to take accountability as a foundation for personal growth. My approach is most effective with individuals who are determined to heal from their traumas and committed to doing the necessary work to achieve meaningful self-improvement. I do not enable clients but instead focus on fostering a therapeutic environment where motivation, accountability, and resilience are key success. I believe that successful outcomes depend on the client's willingness to put forth the effort required to achieve their goals. In our work together, I will provide encouragement, validation, and constructive feedback while challenging clients to confront areas for growth. I may also offer advice and assign homework to help reinforce therapeutic goals outside of sessions.
About Ashley Oakes
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Motivational Interviewing
In our work together, I use Motivational Interviewing, a client-centered and goal-oriented approach designed to help you navigate life's challenges, resolve ambivalence, and strengthen your commitment to meaningful change. My goal is to create a supportive space where you feel heard and understood, empowering you to explore your own motivations, identify barriers, and build confidence in your ability to make progress. Through empathy, collaboration, and open conversation, we will work together to help you take control of your journey and move toward the goals that matter most to you.
Trauma Informed Care
I recognize that past and present trauma can deeply affect your emotions, relationships, and overall well-being. In our work together, I use a Trauma-Informed Care (TIC) approach to create a safe, supportive space where you feel valued, understood, and in control of your healing journey. This means acknowledging your experiences with compassion, helping you build resilience, and working at a pace that feels right for you. My goal is to empower you with the tools and support needed to foster healing, regain a sense of stability and move toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Psychoeducation
Understanding your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors can be a powerful step toward healing. In our work together, I use psycho-education to help you gain insight into what you're experiencing and why. This means exploring how stress, trauma, or mental health challenges impact your daily life--and more importantly, how you can manage them in a way that feels right for you. I'll provide you with tools and strategies to help you navigate anxiety, regulate emotions, and build healthier coping skills. My goal is to empower you with knowledge so you can feel more in control, make informed decisions about your well-being, and move toward the life you want.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Our thoughts have a powerful impact on how we feel and respond to the world around us. In our sessions, I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you identify and challenge unhelpful thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors that may be holding you back. Together, we'll explore patterns that contribute to stress, anxiety, or other emotional struggles, and I'll guide you through practical techniques to shift your perspective and develop healthier coping strategies. For example, we might use thought records to help you recognize and reframe negative thinking or practice cognitive restructuring to see situations in a new, more balanced way. My goal is to support you in gaining insight, building confidence, and creating lasting, positive changes in your life.
Solution Focused Brief Treatment
I know that when you're struggling, it can feel overwhelming to focus on everything that's going wrong. That's why, in our work together, I use Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) to help you shift your focus toward what's possible. Instead of dwelling on the past, we'll work together to identify your strengths, highlights what's already working, and take small, meaningful steps toward the changes you want to see. This approach is all about practical solutions--helping you set clear goals and find real, achievable ways to move forward. I'll ask thoughtful questions, like "What's one small step you could take today to feel a little better"?