Ashley Kurns

I am a licensed mental health counselor based in Florida with over 5 years of dedicated and diverse professional work experience. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of assisting numerous clients in overcoming a wide range of challenges and achieving meaningful transformations in their lives. My areas of expertise encompass a variety of issues, including stress and anxiety management, relationship dynamics, family conflicts, and fostering motivation, self-esteem, and confidence.

My approach

In my therapeutic approach, I firmly believe in treating each individual with the utmost respect, sensitivity, and compassion. Every person's journey is unique, and I am committed to tailoring our dialog and treatment plan to suit your specific needs and goals. Recognizing that seeking help and embarking on a path toward personal growth and fulfillment can be daunting, I provide a safe and non-judgmental space where you can feel supported and empowered throughout your therapeutic journey.

My focus

I understand that the decision to seek counseling is an act of courage, and I am honored to be a part of your transformative process. Together, we will work collaboratively to explore the root causes of your challenges, identify strengths, and develop effective strategies to facilitate positive change. My ultimate aim is to help you uncover your inner resilience and empower you to create a more fulfilling and happier life. If you are ready to embark on this journey of self-discovery and growth, I am here to guide you every step of the way. Together, we will navigate the challenges you face and unlock your full potential for personal and emotional well-being. Remember, you are not alone, and I am here to support you in creating a brighter future.

My communication style

Communication Style: My communication style is warm, empathetic, and collaborative. I focus on active listening and providing a safe space where clients feel heard and validated. I ensure clarity and transparency in my approach, encouraging open dialogue and fostering trust. Tone/Environment of Sessions: In sessions, I aim to create a calming, non-judgmental environment that promotes self-reflection and emotional exploration. I prioritize emotional safety, ensuring clients feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and experiences at their own pace. My sessions are interactive, blending gentle guidance with client-led discussions to support personal growth. What It Feels Like to Work with Me: Working with me feels like having a compassionate guide on your journey toward healing and growth. I maintain a relaxed, yet focused atmosphere where clients can explore challenges and work toward their goals without pressure. Clients often describe our work together as empowering, supportive, and insightful, leaving them with a sense of accomplishment and understanding.

My journey to mental healthcare

My journey to becoming a therapist was deeply rooted in my passion for helping others and a desire to better understand the complexities of human emotions and behaviors. From an early age, I was drawn to understanding how people think and feel, which led me to explore psychology during my academic career. My interest in mental health grew as I witnessed the profound impact that compassionate listening and guidance could have on individuals facing personal challenges. What attracted me most to a career as a therapist was the opportunity to provide that same support and guidance to others. The idea of helping people navigate their struggles, heal, and thrive felt incredibly fulfilling. Therapy allows for meaningful connection with others in a way that transforms not just their mental health but their entire life experience. What drives me to do this work is my deep belief in the power of human resilience and the ability of people to grow and heal with the right support. Seeing my clients achieve breakthroughs, gain insights, and improve their relationships and self-worth continues to inspire me every day. Being part of their journey toward healing and personal growth is both an honor and a responsibility that I hold with immense care and dedication.

My goals for you

When approaching goal setting with clients, I take a collaborative and client-centered approach. I believe goals should align with the client’s values and personal desires, not imposed from the outside. I begin by helping clients clarify their vision for their mental health and well-being, guiding them through self-reflection to identify what they hope to achieve. We break down these larger visions into specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals. This ensures the goals are realistic and aligned with their current situation and capacity. Throughout the process, I encourage flexibility, allowing goals to evolve as the client grows and gains new insights. I also provide support by helping clients recognize their progress and address any obstacles that may arise along the way. By making goal setting an ongoing conversation, clients feel empowered and more invested in their therapeutic journey. It feels like a partnership, where I’m there to provide guidance and encouragement while they take active steps toward achieving their desired outcomes.

My first session with you

In the first session, clients can expect a warm and welcoming environment where the focus is on establishing a foundation of trust and understanding. Our initial meeting is an opportunity for us to get to know each other, and for me to gain a comprehensive understanding of your unique experiences, concerns, and goals. We'll discuss the reasons for bringing you to therapy, explore your personal history, and address any questions or uncertainties you may have about the therapeutic process. This is a collaborative space, and I encourage open communication to ensure that your needs and expectations are heard and understood. Additionally, we may discuss the framework of our work together, including the frequency and format of sessions. I'll provide an overview of my approach and discuss how we can tailor our sessions to best meet your individual needs. Ultimately, the first session is about building a strong therapeutic alliance, setting the stage for a supportive and productive journey towards positive change and personal growth. It's an opportunity for you to express yourself in a judgment-free zone, and for us to collaboratively outline the path forward on your unique therapeutic journey.