Committed to positively influencing the future generation through advocacy, education, support, and empowerment.
Ashley originates from Pennsylvania, where she completed her undergraduate degree from the Pennsylvania College of Technology. Ashley graduated cum laude with a bachelor's degree in Applied Human Services with a minor in Psychology. This program equips her with counseling techniques, a theoretical framework, and practical experience. As a
Ashley originates from Pennsylvania, where she completed her undergraduate degree from the Pennsylvania College of Technology. Ashley graduated cum laude with a bachelor's degree in Applied Human Services with a minor in Psychology. This program equips her with counseling techniques, a theoretical framework, and practical experience. As an undergraduate, Ashley completed a part-time internship at a transitional correctional center and a full-time internship at a domestic violence center.
Ashley decided to move to the Sunshine State to seek new opportunities. Ashley worked as a crisis counselor and inpatient case manager before continuing her education. Ashley began studying at the University of South Florida in 2020. Ashley was invited to join the first cohort of Project iSed, where she received specialized education on positive behavior support in the school setting. Ashley participated in a school-based internship before graduating with her master’s in social work in 2022.
Ashley considers herself a life-long learner. Ashley continues to study new and innovative ways of approaching therapy. Ashley plans to continue her educational journey in a PhD program, which is anticipated to start in 2025.
Ashley began her professional career as a school social worker for students with emotional and behavioral disorders, receiving services in a self-contained classroom setting. Ashley immediately felt at home working with this population as it directly aligned with her mission and purpose. Ashley continues to serve youth with social and beh
Ashley began her professional career as a school social worker for students with emotional and behavioral disorders, receiving services in a self-contained classroom setting. Ashley immediately felt at home working with this population as it directly aligned with her mission and purpose. Ashley continues to serve youth with social and behavioral difficulties.
Ashley additionally took on a part-time role as a therapist in a pediatric psychiatric unit. The ability to provide care and intervention to youth in crisis fills Ashley with a sense of humility and fulfillment.
Ashley has decided to branch out to reach as many youth needing services as possible. Ashley now provides outpatient care as a contracted provider through Elevate PD & Therapy and as a community provider. Ashley delivers most outpatient services virtually, in-home, and within the community.
Ashley specializes in pediatric behavioral and mental health. Ashley has experience supporting youth in school settings, outpatient therapy, and inpatient mental health facilities. Ashley is drawn to working with at-risk youth who struggle emotionally and behaviorally to empower a brighter future. Ashley is a registered clinical social wo
Ashley specializes in pediatric behavioral and mental health. Ashley has experience supporting youth in school settings, outpatient therapy, and inpatient mental health facilities. Ashley is drawn to working with at-risk youth who struggle emotionally and behaviorally to empower a brighter future. Ashley is a registered clinical social work intern and certified school social worker (PK-12) in Florida.
Areas of expertise:
Ashley incorporates a variety of evidence-based treatment modalities into her practice using reality therapy. She is particularly fond of Dr. Glasser's choice theory. Ashley enjoys experiential techniques with an emphasis on mindfulness. When appropriate, Ashley integrates play therapy and art therapy. Ashley often uses Dialectic Behavior Therapy (DBT) techniques due to its action-focused framework and positive outcomes. The foundation of Ashley's practice is strength-based and trauma-informed.
Evaluation and assessment services offer comprehensive psychological evaluations and assessments for individuals seeking clarity and understanding of their mental health. Ashley utilizes evidence-based practices to provide accurate diagnoses and personalized treatment plans for optimal well-being.
Family therapy is offered for all ages and sizes. Sessions last 60 to 120 minutes, depending on the family's needs. The frequency of therapy will be determined by an assessment and treatment plan.
Therapy services are offered for all ages, lasting 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the client's needs. All clients undergo an initial assessment and develop a treatment plan to determine therapy frequency.
A naturalistic approach blends traditional therapeutic techniques with nature's restorative benefits, emphasizing the healing power of unstructured environmental experiences. Click here to learn more.
Please email ashley@readytoelevate.org if you cannot find an answer to your question.
No! Ashley offers free 15-minute consultations. During this time, you and Ashley will discuss your needs, what you hope to get from therapy, and see if it would be a good fit. You can schedule your consultation here.
Please view the investment page for service fees. If financial barriers prevent you from receiving therapeutic services, contact Ashley directly to explore options.
At this time, Ashley can accept Cigna, Cigna EAP, Aetna, Aetna EAP, FL Blue, Telus EAP and both the 'Step Up for Students' and 'Family Empowerment Scholarships' for homeschool and private school students.
As a client of Ashley's, all your information is protected under HIPAA. That means what you say in therapy will be kept between you and Ashley. However, there are exceptions to confidentiality. Those exceptions would be if you or someone else is in danger, being hurt, or being neglected. This could include suicidal thoughts, homicidal thoughts, or claims of abuse. Ashley is a mandated reporter and is required to notify the appropriate agencies.
As a telehealth provider, Ashley takes every precaution to ensure conversations are not overheard and that all information is kept in a secure platform. Please utilize headphones and participate in your session in a private area.
Additionally, Ashley's clinical supervisor (CEO of Elevate PD) will review her session notes. Ashley's supervisor is a qualified, Licensed Clinical Social Worker bound by the same ethical guidelines. Therefore, her supervisor cannot share your information except for the abovementioned instances.
During your first session, your therapist will ask a series of questions to get to know you better and understand your needs in therapy. You will also be able to ask your therapist any questions. The therapeutic relationship is open and honest, so feel free to ask questions or express your concerns.
A Registered Clinical Social Work Intern in Florida is an individual who has met specific educational and examination requirements and is in the process of obtaining the supervised experience needed for full licensure as a Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state.
The ultimate goal of this internship period is to prepare the individual for practice as a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), ensuring they have the necessary practical experience and professional supervision to provide competent and ethical clinical services.
In summary, a Registered Clinical Social Work Intern in Florida is a professional in training. They work under supervision to meet the requirements for full licensure as an LCSW and provide clinical services while accumulating the required experience.
Ashley is registered as an intern until 2028 but anticipates being fully licensed in 2026.
Ashley's Florida Department of Health license number is ISW19158.
Jessica Stephens, PhD
Elevate PD & Therapy Corp
A 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Organization
EIN 93-4142926