Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LMSW-C) based in Michigan. I earned my Master's degree in Social Work and have been practicing for 10 years. I help individuals struggling with mental health issues by providing a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental space where they can express their feelings and challenges openly. I support clients in understanding the roots of their struggles, identifying their strengths, and developing strategies to manage their symptoms. My goal is to empower clients to achieve greater emotional well-being and lead a more balanced and fulfilling life.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
In our first session together we will work towards building rapport while completing a clinical assessment. This will allow me to learn more about you and your experiences. This is also a great time for you to ask any questions that you may have for me as we work towards building a supportive therapeutic relationship.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
Having worked in the mental health sector for 10 years I’ve developed skills that have aided in supporting clients during their journey. The ability to genuinely connect with clients through empathy, active listening, and unwavering support. I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space where clients feel truly heard and understood. My empathetic nature allows me to see the world through their perspective, offering compassionate guidance through their challenges. I also place great importance on listening deeply, allowing clients to express themselves fully while feeling validated. By being a steady and supportive presence, I help clients feel empowered to navigate their struggles and move toward a more fulfilling and balanced life.
About Ashley Willis
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Motivational Interviewing
In my work with clients, I have used motivational interviewing (MI) to create a safe and non-judgmental space for them to explore their thoughts and feelings. By focusing on open-ended questions, active listening, and reflecting back their own words, I helped clients articulate their motivations and recognize their own strengths. This approach empowered them to identify their reasons for change and take ownership of their decisions, leading to more meaningful and lasting progress. Motivational interviewing allowed clients to feel heard and respected, fostering a collaborative relationship that facilitated their growth.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
In my work with clients, I have used Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help them identify and challenge negative thought patterns that contribute to their distress. By working together to recognize these unhelpful beliefs, we were able to reframe their thoughts and replace them with more balanced and realistic perspectives. Through structured exercises, such as thought records and behavioral experiments, I guided clients in testing the accuracy of their thoughts and adopting healthier coping strategies. This process not only alleviated their immediate concerns but also equipped them with tools to manage future challenges independently.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
In my work with clients, I have used mindfulness therapy to help them become more present and aware of their thoughts, emotions, and bodily sensations without judgment. Through guided meditation exercises, breathing techniques, and mindful awareness practices, I taught clients how to observe their experiences rather than becoming overwhelmed by them. This approach helped them develop greater emotional regulation, reduce stress, and build resilience. By integrating mindfulness into their daily lives, clients learned to respond to challenges with more calmness and clarity, ultimately fostering a deeper sense of inner peace and well-being.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
In my work with clients, I have used Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help them manage intense emotions and improve their relationships. By focusing on core DBT skills such as mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness, I guided clients in learning practical strategies to cope with difficult situations without feeling overwhelmed. Through role-playing and real-life application of these skills, clients developed the ability to navigate their emotions more effectively, reduce impulsive behaviors, and communicate their needs clearly. DBT has been particularly valuable in helping clients build a balanced life, where they can accept their current realities while working toward positive change.