About Me | Ashley Atkins, MSW, LCSW

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Hey! I’m Ashley, and I wanted to share a little about myself so you know who you’ll be working with.

I’m a lifelong animal lover, so it’s no surprise that I often show up with a rescued pet in tow. At home, I share my life with my husband, son, dogs, a cat, a pig, goats, chickens, and ducks. I’m a night owl who loves the stars, snow, and a great storm.

I care deeply about my community and meaningful connections. Living with chronic illness and surviving trauma has given me firsthand insight into struggle, resilience, and the importance of being truly heard — experiences that inspired me to become a therapist. I bring this perspective into my work, creating a space where clients feel safe, understood, and empowered to find their own path forward.

I’m known for honesty, a little sarcasm, and a belief that laughter is healing. I’ve heard it all — from the deeply traumatic to the deeply embarrassing — and I approach therapy without judgment. Healing is rarely neat or linear, and I enjoy helping people navigate the messy, gray areas and discover what works for them.

Off the clock, you’ll usually find me chasing my pets, binge-watching an eclectic mix of shows and movies, sneaking in a nap whenever I can, or getting lost in weird and fascinating bits of history.

I approach therapy in a trauma-focused, client-centered way. I don’t rely on a single method; instead, I tailor therapy to each client’s unique needs. My work draws from play therapy, trauma-focused CBT, solution-focused therapy, attachment-based approaches, art therapy, psychodynamic therapy, person-centered therapy, and mindfulness practices. Above all, I prioritize creating a safe, supportive, and therapeutic environment where clients can feel understood and empowered.

I have extensive experience supporting individuals, families, and communities across mental health, addiction, and social work services, including volunteering, community programs, nonprofits, schools, therapeutic group homes, outpatient care, and private practice.

Masters in Social Work (MSW), Walla Walla University 2022

Side Story: Before entering the field of social work, I earned a degree in Public Relations with a minor in Wine Trade and Tourism from Central Washington University (2011). I’d always dreamed of studying social work, but life and circumstances took me on a different path — one that ultimately led me back to the work I was always meant to do.