ASHLEY WILLIAMS, LSW

Ashley M. Williams (pronouns: she/her) is a licensed social worker who works with teens, adults, and couples. Her specialty interests include: women’s and gender issues, trauma-informed care, intersectionality, civil rights, and social justice. She utilizes treatment approaches that are evidence-based and uniquely tailored to each client.

Ashley completed her advanced education at Murray State University, earning a bachelor’s degree in sociology and multicultural, class, and gender studies. She also earned a master’s degree in social work at the University of Kentucky. While working to complete her master’s degree, Ashley earned two graduate certificates in clinical social work and substance use disorders. She has a strong love of lifetime learning.

Prior to private practice, Ashley worked with diverse clients in hospital and community-based settings.

Over the last 10 years, she has had many unique opportunities. These include working in Adult Protective Services, providing emotional supportive and clinical mental health therapy for survivors of human trafficking and sexual violence, and serving as a social worker for veterans seeking care at the Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center. All of her experiences have contributed to her passion for helping others and her clinical approach.

Ashley’s approach to counseling is relational and emotion-focused because she believes that personal growth is the result of empowering connections that are rooted in safety, authenticity, vulnerability, and mutual respect. In addition to being a non-judgmental, compassionate listener she is a collaborative strength-builder and problem-solver. She is known for using humor, psychoeducation, metaphors, and mindfulness techniques in sessions.

Her strengths include: kindness, love of learning, empathy, social intelligence, and the ability to see the bigger picture in life.