Ashley Sanford, PhD

Everyone has a story, and mine began right outside Houston, Texas. I eventually took a leap of faith and ventured out of state for college at American University in Washington, D.C. Later, I found myself immersed in the vibrant energy of Los Angeles, where I dedicated my time to volunteering on the LA suicide crisis hotline. While navigating the notorious LA traffic, I knew my heart was drawn to helping others find strength and meaning in their lives. It led me to pursue my doctorate in Counseling, Clinical, and School Psychology at the University of California, Santa Barbara, where I developed a passion for clinical psychology.

My journey continued at UT Health Science Center in San Antonio, where I completed my clinical internship, followed by a specialized postdoctoral residency at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center in Houston. There, I honed my skills in trauma treatment and recovery, particularly focusing on Posttraumatic Growth, a concept that deeply resonates with me. Today, I'm a licensed clinical psychologist in private practice in downtown Houston, passionate about empowering individuals to navigate life's challenges and embrace their full potential.

About Therapy & My Approach

Therapy can often feel shrouded in mystery, but it's a powerful process that doesn't have to be intimidating. It's about creating a safe and supportive space to explore your experiences, understand your thoughts and feelings, and uncover strategies for growth and healing. My approach is rooted in the scientific foundation of psychology, incorporating research-backed therapies while recognizing the unique needs and values of each individual.

I place a high value on building a strong, trusting relationship with my clients. I believe that genuine connection and empathy are essential for effective therapy. It's a collaborative journey where we work together to identify your goals and develop a personalized plan. I use a combination of cognitive-behavioral techniques, values-based approaches, and feminist/multicultural perspectives to address a wide range of concerns, including trauma, anxiety, and stress management. I am particularly passionate about helping individuals who have experienced trauma to find meaning, resilience, and growth in the face of adversity.

The Power of Posttraumatic Growth

Life can throw unexpected challenges our way, sometimes leaving us feeling overwhelmed and vulnerable. However, within every struggle lies the opportunity for growth. Posttraumatic Growth is the profound ability to emerge from adversity stronger, wiser, and more connected to ourselves and others. It's about finding meaning and purpose in the midst of pain.

My work is dedicated to helping individuals not only heal from trauma but also to access and harness the power of this remarkable human capacity for growth. I believe that trauma doesn't have to define us; it can be a catalyst for profound transformation.

Through therapy, individuals can gain the tools and support needed to navigate their experiences, heal emotional wounds, and rediscover their inner strength.

Services Offered

My practice offers a range of services tailored to meet your individual needs, including:

• Individual Psychotherapy:

This provides a safe and supportive space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, develop coping strategies for challenges, and work towards personal growth.

• Trauma-Focused Therapy:

Specialized therapy addressing the unique needs of individuals who have experienced trauma.

• Workshops and Talks:

I offer engaging and informative workshops on topics such as stress management, grief and loss, trauma and PTSD, and navigating life's transitions.