Frequently Asked Questions
What is your experience as a therapist?
I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor and Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor with nearly 20 years of experience supporting clients through anxiety, life transitions, trauma, and self-worth struggles. Over the years, I’ve worked in college counseling centers, intensive substance abuse treatment programs, community clinics, and private practice. For a full list, click here.
These experiences have given me a deep understanding of what it’s like to be navigating big emotions, identity shifts, and overwhelming life demands. My work is rooted in compassion, curiosity, and a deep respect for the complexity of being human.
What can I expect in our first session?
Our first session is about getting to know each other. I’ll ask some questions to better understand your story, what’s bringing you to therapy, and what you’re hoping for. You don’t need to prepare or have the “right” words — just come as you are.
Do I have to talk about my childhood right away?
Not at all. We’ll go at your pace. If and when we talk about the past, it’s always in service of helping you understand how old patterns might be showing up today — but only when you’re ready.
What kinds of clients do you work with?
I specialize in working with highly sensitive, high-achieving adults navigating anxiety, people-pleasing, perfectionism, life transitions, and identity questions. Many of my clients feel like they’re always performing and are ready to finally feel like themselves — or discovering who is “the real me”.
What approaches do you use?
I draw from ACT, CBT, mindfulness, MI, HAES, and always work from a trauma-informed, humanistic foundation. But more than any model, I prioritize connection, flexibility, and creating a safe space where you lead the process.
Is it okay if I cry (or laugh, or swear)?
Absolutely. All parts of you are welcome here. Therapy is a space where you get to feel without editing yourself. It’s okay, I might be swearing too!
I’ve never done therapy before. What if I’m nervous or not sure what to say?
That’s completely okay — so many people feel that way at first. You don’t need to have the perfect words or know exactly where to start. We’ll move at a pace that feels safe for you. My job is to create a space where you can show up just as you are, and we’ll figure it out together.
Why don’t you accept insurance?
I’ve chosen not to bill insurance directly because I want to give you the most private, flexible, and personalized experience possible. When insurance companies are involved, they require a formal mental health diagnosis and may ask for details about your treatment or copies of your records to approve coverage or audit payments to your therapist. That means sensitive information about your mental health becomes part of your permanent medical record and may be accessed by others down the line.
By staying out-of-network, your therapy stays between us. No labels unless they’re truly necessary, no hoops to jump through, and no one looking over your shoulder. You’re still welcome to use your out-of-network benefits if you have them—I can provide a superbill for you to submit to your insurance.
How do I get started?
Click the Get Started button below to schedule a free 15-minute consultation. It’s a low-pressure way for us to see if we’re a good fit.
What if I have more questions?
If you have more questions, please feel free to email me at contact@ashleywidmayer.com.
What are your Privacy Practices?
Read a copy of my current Privacy Practices here.