If you are feeling unsafe, having thoughts of hurting yourself or others, please call 988 or 911. You deserve to feel well. You matter.
I believe we are more than just bodies;
we are vibrant worlds unto ourselves, constantly seeking balance and growth throughout life's journey. Raw, painful at times and also full of love, wonder and gratitude.
I am in awe of the dance between the dark and the light. I believe in our ability to heal ourselves, to break the cycles which no longer serve & align with our highest self. Our story is ever evolving as we shed past selves and write our next chapters.
This is your journey to self.
hi,
I'm
Ashley
Holding
Space
A few notes about holding space. I often say...
"Be a channel, not a dumpster."
Why? For me, holding space for someone isn't about fixing their problems or offering advice. It's about creating a safe and supportive environment where they can be fully seen and heard, free from judgment. It's about listening with your heart, acknowledging their emotions, and allowing them to express themselves authentically. In this space of compassion and acceptance, they can find the strength to heal and move forward. If we take on someone else's "stuff," we are not helping. Hold as a channel for whatever is needed in that moment,
not collecting it or holding it within yourself.
Tell me, what is it you plan to do
with your one wild and precious life?
Mary Oliver, The Summer Day
My Own Self-Care
Personally, I work hard on my own self-care and discovery by prioritizing my own healing journey. I found connection in yoga and stillness in meditation. Practicing presence and pause. Breathing in the little moments and sitting with the more challenging. I've learned to listen to my body and to what it needs through diving deep into understanding more about my own nervous system. Although it isn't perfect and takes work, we can learn to become more conscious in our day to day. Take comfort and gratitude for quality moments over quantity and release guilt to welcome in compassion. SURRENDER.
I love being in nature and appreciating its abundance. As my children have grown, I have slowly made my way out of the fog and trenches of early motherhood. I have fallen in love with cold exposure and the many gifts it has given me. I rediscovered my love of poetry and made time again to spread my creative wings. You may see me walking around town, chasing the light in the waves, searching for treasures on the beach, or finding an icy spot to take a dip!
My intentions are to never lose appreciation for the moments of joy in life as well as understanding and acknowledging this privilege. For me, it's the beauty of a sunset, the gift of a sunrise, the awe of the mountains, the glow of the moon, the power of the sea, a laugh, a deep hug, and all of the mini moments in between.
The Basics
I am a licensed mental health counselor in MA and NH
I graduated undergrad at UNH and, after a few years in the field,
went on to complete my graduate program at Cambridge College.
Specialties
Certified Perinatal Mental Health Professional (PMH-C):
Licensed through Postpartum Support International (PSI)
Certified Psychedelic Assisted Therapy Provider | 250+ hr program with Integrative Psychology Institute (IPI): Psychedelic Assisted Therapy with Ketamine, Psilocybin, MDMA
EMDR Therapy Intensive Training through The Center for Excellence
Specialized training in EMDR Therapy & Somatic Psychology for Chronic Pain and Illness
Reiki I and II Practitioner
200 hr Yoga Teacher Training
Prior to starting my own practice, I worked for almost 15 yrs in community mental health in the Lawrence and Haverhill communities. The experiences and connections I made during this time, will always be such a gift. From working in foster care care coordination, in home and in schools, emergency services to managing a small clinic, these experiences have made me the therapist I am today as well as opened my eyes to the vast world of injustice, equity, and the immense privilege I hold.