Ashley understands the need we all have of belonging. Feeling like we belong is a biological need that we are wired for. The connections and relationships we have with others are needed for optimal growth and development. However, negative life experiences, inability to self-regulate our emotions, attachment difficulties, self-esteem or other mental health concerns, can negatively affect the way we interact with and respond to others, causing difficulties in building and maintaining those positive relationships and that sense of belonging we need.

 

Through the therapeutic modalities of EMDR, CBT, DBT, Sand Tray/Play Therapy, neurofeedback, and others, Ashley assists individuals in learning and implementing coping skills to self-regulate emotions, identify those experiences, circumstances, and thoughts that negatively impact daily functioning and then process towards resolution for improved functioning and life enjoyment.

 

Education and Experience: Ashley is a licensed professional counselor and board certified in neurofeedback. Ashley has over 20 years of experience in working with children and adolescents with behavioral and mental health concerns as a foster/adopt parent, and now as a counselor.  Ashley has a master’s degree from Argosy University in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a bachelor’s degree in human development from Brigham Young University.

Specializations: Ashley specializes in children and adolescents but also sees adults. She is especially experienced in working with individuals with Autism. Ashley is also able to work with parents in understanding their child’s behaviors and how to manage those behaviors.

Through her many years of foster/adoptive parenting, Ashley experienced how trauma, anxiety, learning disorders, intellectual delay, Autism, depression, ADHD, and mood dysregulation negatively affects daily functioning, relationships, and academics.  Ashley is well versed in IDEA, Individuals with Disabilities Act, which defines the laws and accommodations that ensure children with disabilities are provided with what they need to be successful in school. Ashley utilizes her experiences and knowledge in assisting parents in securing a 504 plan or an IEP for their child.

Personal: Ashley and her husband have 3 biological children, 12 adopted children, and 3 grandchildren. Adding to the chaos, there are chickens, ducks, goats, dogs, cats, and a pig.  In her spare time, Ashley enjoys sewing, crocheting, crafts, reading, water and snow skiing.