Ashley Barnes, LMFT

I help​ individuals and couples who are scared they’ll never live up to expectations they or others have for them –no matter what you do, it feels like you aren’t enough.

You can experience more fulfillment in your life and relationships! I’m here to support you.

I’m the type of therapist who has a gentle, calming presence and draws from the latest research to provide you with the highest quality care.

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​I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and will meet you with authenticity, empathy, compassion, and a good sense of humor. You matter a lot and in our work together, I’ll help you feel deeply heard and understood; you’ll know you aren’t alone.

I know what it is like to always be striving for more.  I graduated from both UCLA and USC and am a recovering perfectionist.

There will always be pressure in the world to have more or do more; we do have the power to have what matters most to us with less of the constant stress and anxiety that you may be feeling.

Navigating a stressful work life or having lots of anxiety in your relationship?  I’ll provide you with some helpful tools to cope.

Just need a place to cry it out sometimes or vent about the ridiculous choices of a friend or family member?  That’s welcome here too. 

I am a trauma-informed clinician who works from a solid foundation of humanistic, experiential approaches. I integrate evidenced based treatments like cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy into my work with clients.

Getting to support folks in their relational connections and mental health at Love Heal Grow is pretty much my dream job.

My clients matter to me and you don’t need to worry that you’re going to be sitting across from a therapist who is watching the clock waiting for the day to end.

You can find hope again.

You may be grappling with residual effects of trauma, grieving a loved one or a part of your life, feeling stressed and anxious, experiencing depression, or struggling with relationships. You may be feeling discouraged that things won’t ever get better, but they can. While healing isn’t always linear, I will help you move towards where you want to go. 

Your story matters.  Your values and beliefs and experience matter.  Let’s work together to understand where you want to go next and remove the blocks to getting there.

Part of what can make therapy so empowering is speaking your truth, gaining powerful insights, and continuing to grow as a human being. I will help you do just that.

Therapy won’t work unless we both commit to the process.  I’m already in 110%; will you join me?

Remember how I said I’m a recovering perfectionist?  My over-achieving-ness still pops up in good ways–like my relentless dedication to my clients.

While we will do work within our sessions, I will also encourage you to do work outside of our sessions for optimal positive change. Real change happens when we challenge ourselves and try something new; I will provide you with engaging therapeutic tools and exercises to continue your growth outside of the therapy room.

Your unique identity is to be honored, embraced, and cherished.

I welcome anyone regardless of their age, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, class, or ability.

Therapy may seem intimidating and though it may be hard at some points, I will be present with you through all of it. I will help you find peace as you move toward positive changes in your life and relationships.

On a more personal note: 

When I’m not doing therapy, you may find me taking a peaceful stroll in nature or in a museum, listening to or creating music, spending time with loved ones, looking for new restaurants to try, or taking an outrageous amount of pictures of my dog.

Articles by Ashley

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Formal Credentials

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (#150005): Licensed to practice psychotherapy in California

Education

M.S., Marriage and Family Therapy: University of Southern California (USC)

B.A., Psychology: University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

Trainings
Gottman Method Couples Therapy: Level I
Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (Hold Me Tight Program)
Gottman Couples Therapy: Level 2
Gottman Couples Therapy: Trauma and Infidelity
Modern Sex Therapy Institute: Addressing Common Sexual Concerns in Individuals and Couples
Modern Sex Therapy Institute: LGBTQIA Affirmative Therapy
Modern Sex Therapy Institute: Alternative Sexualities/Non-Traditional Relationships
Anti-Racism & Culturally Affirmative Care, Diversity & Resiliency Institute of El Paso

Advanced Trainings/Certifications
Seeking Safety: An Evidence-Based Model for Trauma and/or Substance Abuse Training – Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services
Suicide Risk Assessment, Prevention and Intervention Training – Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services