Hi, I’m Ashley McClain, and I am a master’s level psychologist at Collaborative Health Center. I believe that good therapy is all about creating a warm, nonjudgmental environment where you feel safe, comfortable, and able to discuss the issues that are most important to you. Research shows that the quality of the relationship between you and your therapist is the best indicator of therapeutic success, and I excel at developing genuine, honest relationships with my clients and connecting with both teens and adults who might feel nervous or reluctant to try therapy.
Education & Experience: I obtained my bachelor’s degree in clinical/community psychology in 2007 from the University of Michigan-Flint and went on to earn my master’s degree in general clinical psychology from Eastern Michigan University in 2010. During my practicum placement at Eastern Michigan University, I worked at a private practice in Ann Arbor providing psychological evaluations and neuropsychological testing. After graduating with my master’s degree, I worked in a community mental health setting for three and a half years providing therapy and other services to clients with severe and persistent mental illness in their homes and communities. I began providing psychotherapy in a private practice setting in 2014 and found my professional home at Collaborative Health Center in the spring of 2017.
Specialties: I specialize in treating individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, and ADHD, although I feel comfortable working with clients on many other issues, as well. I see teens, adults, and couples.
Approach to Therapy: My approach to therapy is eclectic, meaning that I draw from a number of theories and therapy styles to tailor my treatment to your individual needs. However, common techniques that I use include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): Examining and reframing unhealthy or inaccurate thoughts in combination with teaching practical coping strategies.
- Psychodynamic therapy: Helping you to become aware of subconscious thoughts and feelings and understanding how past experiences inform your current symptoms and problems.
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT): A structured approach focused on identifying specific behaviors that are problematic for you and utilizing practical skills and strategies as a method of changing those behaviors and coping with emotional distress (please note that full DBT programs are available which offer both individual and group therapy; I do not offer a full DBT program and rather utilize DBT techniques with clients who might benefit from them).
- Mindfulness practice: Developing nonjudgmental awareness of your thoughts, feelings, physical experiences, and surrounding environment and learning to be in the present moment.
I accept most major insurance plans and offer evening and weekend appointments for your convenience.
If you are struggling, I hope you will not continue to suffer in silence. I would love an opportunity to talk with you about your treatment needs and how I can help.
