Ashley Anderson
Fear tactics from therapists were proven ineffective decades ago. As your therapist, I provide a safe and inclusive space for growth, transformation and change, because it is your time, not mine. I foster a collaborative approach which affirms your capacity for self-love and self-compassion, while also utilizing therapeutic tools which help you outside of just emotional and psychological concerns. My intention is for my clients to build upon their own perceived strengths and abilities, or assist in discovery of new ones. I'm a vegetarian of 15 years, I have two cats that I adore and I love a chai latte with oat milk. The majority of my professional experience comes from substance-use treatment, hospitals and outpatient agency work.
First session
We will discuss your current life circumstances, current symptoms and your targeted areas due for growth/change and we will determine if the skillset that I can offer as your psychotherapist is appropriate.
Strengths
I believe two things can simultaneously be true. Wherein I am your biggest hype woman, but also recognize the need for self-accountability so that we can achieve positive results to best serve you in the long-run.
Ideal clients
I am of service foremost to clients who prefer an open-minded, empowering and genuine therapist. No matter where you are at in your life journey, we can work together to achieve your goals, eliminate negative thinking patterns or accept your true identity in a safe space. ***I am also prepared to work with clients who are discharging to the community from substance-use treatment, or any inpatient or outpatient treatment program in which they seek to continue work on their treatment goals on: 1. Remaining in recovery and continuing abstinence from their substance or addictive behaviors. 2. Building coping skills and emotion regulation skills. 3. Less-intrusive PTSD or acute stress disorder symptoms (avoidance, adjustment issues, difficultly concentrating, feelings of grief/loss, feelings of guilt, shame or blame) 4. Navigating difficult social and familial dynamics after treatment completion.
Treatment methods
Trauma-Focused CBT
Traumatic experiences, especially concurrent, can negatively influence our thinking. Trauma-focused CBT exercises, tools and talk-therapy can help you recognize patterns so that you can overcome them.
Gender-affirming therapy
I offer an inclusive and safe space for people of all gender identities and sexualities, and no you will not have to spend the majority of the session explaining what you mean or background info. I've got you.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
Mindfulness is more than just breath work. It is more about remaining present in your current life, and helping you learn coping skills which can assist in managing impulse control issues, anxiety and panic symptoms, when you are not in session.
Humanistic
Making mistakes or struggling does not make you a bad person. That's what therapy is for.
Location
Virtual sessions