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Ashley Pickard, LMFT

Ashley Pickard, LMFT

she/her

Licensed in FL #MT259
Insurances Accepted: Aetna
My work is rooted in following my intuition, trusting the process of therapy with my clients, and assisting them in finding their own unique path in this life.

My Therapy Style

My intent is to provide a safe and non-threatening space to discuss strategies to help you cope with and overcome what feels like insurmountable obstacles. Whether these difficulties are in dealing with relationships, child-rearing, marriage, work-stress or transitioning life stages, therapy is a useful tool to help individuals navigate these situations. I specialize in helping people find authentic and long-lasting healing that contributes to an increased quality of life. I take pride in the work I do and am deeply humbled by those who choose me to help them navigate life’s difficult moments. My own work is rooted in following my intuition, trusting the process of therapy with my clients and assisting them in finding their own unique path in this life. Learning to love ourselves, just as we are, is a radical thing to do in a society and culture that sends us so many messages that we are “not good enough.” My hope and intention for all my clients is to help them increase their understanding of who they are and what they want out of this life. To help them find the confidence to prioritize themselves and make decisions in their life that reflect their goals and desires.

I have been working as a therapist since 2013. Before opening a private practice, I worked with a variety of populations. These include, survivors of sexual assault, adult individuals experiencing homelessness, families navigating the judicial system, as well as individual adults working through problems related to communication, self-esteem, depression, anxiety and feelings of helplessness. I also have experience and training in working in the areas of PTSD, chronic pain, spirituality and those struggling with guilt and shame.

I am also a Certified TRE Practitioner (Trauma/Tension Releasing Exercises). This easy-to-learn self-help technique can be used in conjunction with any other therapy as a stress reduction technique. TRE is particular helpful to survivors of trauma or those who experience overwhelmed stress/tension daily. I first began practicing TRE in 2002 and after experiencing the unique benefits that came from a dedicated practice, I decided to become a certified provider in June 2017.

Education & Training

BA -  Political Science, San Jose State University

MS - Counseling Marriage and Family Therapy, California State University East Bay

Get to Know Me

Why did you become a mental health professional?

I became a therapist after working with survivors of sexual trauma at an agency (Rape Trauma Services in CA) as a volunteer. I started as an advocate and felt limited in role to only help the client's speak up for themselves, and wanted to meet with them after the reported rape and help them in their healing journey. Later, I worked at the Social Security Disability Project at Stanford Law School and worked with chronically homeless individuals who suffered from a myriad of mental health diagnosis. I found that I did not like my role as advocate (again) and was more interested in working with these individuals to help them heal from their past traumas.

What are your interests outside of work?

I enjoy cooking for my family, sewing, reading, and being involved in my spiritual community. I love spending time with my family and canoeing whenever the weather is nice, and hiking in our local parks.

What is one thing you do daily that supports your well-being?

I have a daily practice of meditation and spirituality which is vital to my role as a therapist and healer.

What book have you read more than once?

I don't typically read books more than once, although there are a few that I could benefit from. I often return to books to review parts, but there are too many that I want to read before returning to the same one twice.

Favorite organization/non-profit?

Planned Parenthood because of how many women I know who they have supported directly find safe access to medicine.

How do you recharge?

Through meditation, cooking and nature.

Do you have any pets?

I have a dog, Echo.