about me
Ashley McLaughlin, MS, MFT
I believe that each individual has within them the capacity to heal old or new wounds. We all have the ability to create or redefine the meaning in our lives. None of us exist in a vacuum, our experience is shaped by a multitude of factors. The power of connection, of being witnessed in our pain, can have a profound impact – healing and moving forward becomes inevitable. I am passionate about the transformative power of kindness in the clinical relationship and to self. I am passionate about nurturing mental health as a core foundation to families and communities.
I am adjunct faculty at San Francisco State University, teaching graduate counseling students as they become therapists themselves. I am also a Board of Behavioral Sciences-licensed supervisor who oversees and clinically guides therapists in training as they head toward licensure. I serve on the board of directors for Girls, Inc. of the Island City, where we support young girls so that they may thrive.
In my free time I enjoy being with my family, exploring nature and getting lost in a good historical fiction TV show.
working together
I provide psychotherapy services where I partner with you through compassion and respect as the foundation. Effective therapy is only as strong as the connection between client and therapist. This is why having a meaningful connection in the midst of pain, challenges, and adversity is a wonderful asset to your healing.
I take an active and collaborative role in our sessions, working alongside you to sift through the pain or obstacles to find your way into sustainable healing and growth. I utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in addition to Cognitive Behavioral techniques (CBT), while encouraging mindfulness, especially in the context of the mind-body connection. When working with couples I utilize Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to target core attachment wounds and to assist in redefining how we seek to communicate with our loved one. However, I personalize my clinical approach based on your unique needs, history and goals.
Our work together will help you integrate life-transforming experiences, increase your resiliency and psychological flexibility. Let us begin this journey together and you will discover the great gifts that have always lived within you.