Ashley Austin
PhD, LCSW, EMDR CERTIFIED THERAPIST
About
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, EMDR Certified Therapist, and trauma specialist with over 25 years of experience working with adolescents and adults, including extensive expertise in LGBTQ+ affirmative practice. Based in Boca Raton, Florida, I offer in-person therapy and virtual therapy throughout Florida.
I specialize in helping people heal from trauma and difficult life experiences that can leave them struggling with shame, anxiety, self-doubt, low self-worth, and painful relationship patterns. Sometimes these struggles stem from experiences we readily recognize as traumatic. Other times, they develop through less obvious experiences--feeling unseen, repeatedly criticized, rejected, or learning that our needs don't matter.
My approach is grounded in attachment, neuroscience, and the understanding that meaningful healing involves more than just talking about our experiences. I integrate EMDR, mindfulness, self-compassion, parts work, and body-based approaches to help clients move beyond longstanding patterns, reconnect with themselves, and develop greater confidence, authenticity, and choice in their lives.
Areas of Expertise:
Trauma Responsive Therapy
Most people experience trauma and toxic stress in their lives- either as children or in adulthood. These experiences can change how we see ourselves and the world. They also make changes to our minds and bodies. Traumatic experiences have long term impacts on the way we think, feel, and relate to others, and they even change the way our nervous system reacts on a moment-moment basis. Therapeutic interventions that safely and directly target the consequences of trauma and toxic stress are called Trauma Responsive...
LGBTQ+ Affirmative Practice Expertise
Many therapists are somewhat familiar with LBGTQ+ identities and experiences. I have spent the last 15+ years specializing in affirming clinical practice with LGBTQ+ individuals. I’ve conducted research and developed programs that have proven successful in helping LBGTQ+ youth and adults improve their mental health...
I offer individualized, trauma-responsive psychotherapy for adolescents and adults, with in-person sessions in Boca Raton and secure telehealth appointments available throughout Florida.