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My name is Ashley Neal and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Lancaster, CA, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with children and adolescents and specialize in mood disorders, anxiety, and developmental disorders, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, creative arts therapies, and Solution Focused Therapy to help my clients make progress and feel accomplished as they reach their goals.
My approach
My approach to therapy varies based on the need of each individual client. I most frequently use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, creative arts therapies, and Solution Focused Therapy. These types of treatment have been most effective in helping my clients set goals, explore their struggles, and establish coping skills.
My focus
I have found that my personality and therapeutic style are the best fit for children and adolescent populations. This includes clients with mood disorders, developmental disorders, and anxiety, and helping clients navigate the difficulties of managing these issues at different stages as they grow. I help clients establish better coping skills to work on increasing their self-esteem and decreasing symptoms to work towards more positive development.
My communication style
My communication style is personable, accepting, and straightforward. I want my clients to feel comfortable as they share difficult things in session, and I pride myself on my ability to relate to my clients and listen without judgment.
My journey to mental healthcare
I have always had a love for helping others, whether that was through peer counseling, community service, or being a friendly shoulder to cry on or vent to. I found my passion in working with children and adolescents very early on, and have spent time exploring many different therapeutic settings, from private practice to school-based to incarceration settings. I have found the need for therapy for children and adolescents to continue increasing, particularly post-COVID, and access to services is very readily unavailable. I know how important it can be to address mental health early on, and I hope to be able to contribute to helping children grow up with positive ways to manage their mental health.
My goals for you
My approach to goal setting with clients is all about collaborating to better establish what you want to accomplish during our time together. This often starts by building trust, understanding what it means to be in therapy, and exploring your main concerns. Throughout sessions, we will work together to set goals and track your progress.
