Her Story
About Ashley
Ashley Burchell is a psychotherapist specializing in clinical mental health counseling and psychotherapy, with a focus on treating eating disorders and people with unresolved trauma. With just under 10 years in the field, she brings expertise developed through her master's degree in clinical mental health, certifications, continuing education, and clinical experience. Her career began with aspirations to become a professional ballet dancer, but while training intensively she suffered an injury that redirected her path after she encountered an article on dance movement therapy. This sparked an interest in psychology and therapy services, which led her to double major in college in both dance and psychology! She completed her bachelor's degree at The George Washington University and completed her master's degree at Florida Gulf Coast University. She attributes her success to her resiliency, determination, and ambition, noting that she is a first-generation college graduate! Outside of her professional work, Ashley volunteers with local animal shelters by fostering dogs and working on-site, assisting with cleaning and the care of animals. She values empathy, compassion, honesty, fidelity, and trustworthiness in both her work and personal life. She is an advocate for women and loves to empower each unique individual.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Ashley
01What do you attribute your success to?
Definitely my resiliency, determination, and ambition. If you tell me I cannot do something or I won't be able to accomplish that, I will make it my ultimate goal to accomplish it, just because I know I can and to purposely set out and prove you wrong, just to make a point. I am first generation in my family of origin to complete college, but to also complete a master's degree. Eventually, I will set out and achieve a doctorate! So I think it speaks volumes to what I've had to overcome, and I wouldn't have been able to do that if I weren't determined and resilient.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I try to tell people what I didn't know, which is that I didn't know that I was gonna need a master's degree before I could really even practice. You never get into counseling or therapy, social work, any of that, for the money. That's not why you go into it.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
In terms of opportunities, there's never a shortage of opportunities. There's always a way to expand, to keep learning, to implement the latest newest technique or modality, complete a new certification and be more evolved in the industry. Maybe launch on your own in private practice, or develop a new niche area of expertise.
As for challenges, it's a catch 22. Staying up to date and evolving with a rapidly changing field, while continuing to having a cutting edge practice. There's no shortage of opportunities, but we're all limited with time, resources, we are only just human! Additionally, challenges in being able to meet people where they are at. Being accessible and available to all clients, regardless of their geographical location, demographics, financial abilities, etc. and making services fair, equitable, and available to all that need it or want it.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Most importantly, empathy and compassion, and being able to relate to others. This is at the heart of every great therapist. In addition, I personally value my ability to be that safe haven for others, survivors of the unspeakable. It's my why, not only as a therapist, but also as a human being.
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