Ashyle Horton, LCSW
Therapist
Race-based Traumatic Stress Counselor
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Hi, I'm Ashyle. I create a protective space for BIPOC individuals.
As a queer Black woman, I knew early on that there were high expectations FOR me and I carried a heavy burden to be ten times more “presentable” to the world just to get by. I focused on helping others and being the person I assumed everyone else needed me to be. And in trying to hold onto everyone and society’s standards, I was losing who I was, always taking care of everyone else and prioritizing their needs over my own. My emotions became neglected in the process and I found myself losing my voice as well.
While I enjoyed feeling important to people and that I was following the life they wanted for me, it led to me feeling exhausted and lonely. I learned over time that I needed to give myself patience when I tripped or else I would crumble from burnout. I cannot and should not be expected to be “on” or strong all the time and I do not have to follow anyone else’s standards for my life. There are safe spaces to feel supported. If you have been feeling like this, you may be experiencing burn out.
Today I help people give themselves grace and space. Counseling can help you gain a better understanding of what you’re going through and discover your inner strength and worth. In your work with me, you can expect a comforting environment that allows you to let your guard down and be your true authentic self.
You deserve a therapist who will be in your corner. Dealing with burnout starts with processing the guilt and shame of giving yourself grace. Then we identify strategies for self-care that are safe and healing for you. I will support you by providing a caring space to be heard while being accountable toward your goals. Reach out today to get started. I’m here for you.
If you are dealing with heavy misplaced burdens, traumatic experiences, experiencing grief and loss or managing mood disorders, I am here to help. Reach out today to get started. Click on this link or email [email protected].
On Being a Counselor
I believe that the key to change is being open to the process. I get upset seeing therapists who aren’t willing to do the work to help diverse clients. I’ve seen how some therapists push their own methods and techniques onto their client without considering what their client wants, or what they are ready to do.
You are the expert of your own life. You can expect a collaborative approach to our work together. This means I will always take your wants and needs into account.
My past experience in human development helps me appreciate how complex and unique every individual is and how your unique qualities can be used to create change. I am here to help you name what is going on for you and be a guide as you learn and grow throughout your wellness journey.
Practitioner Background
I decided to become a counselor after handling my own mental health challenges and being exposed to a therapist who looked like me. I grew up believing that prayer was how to get through mood disorders and never knew that I could be allowed to have an equitable space where I could be vulnerable with someone who understood me as a Black woman.
I am inspired by the resiliency and strength in my clients who have gone through traumatic experiences but are still standing on the other side. I'm also inspired by those who are willing to take that first step and ask for help. It takes a lot of courage and it's not an easy feat to open up to a stranger but it's inspiring to see and experience.
You can find space where you are supported, accepted, and heard. Reach out to schedule your first appointment. When you call our scheduling line, our Intake Coordinator can answer any questions you might have. To schedule your first appointment, click on this link or email [email protected]. I'm here for you.
More About Ashyle
Key Philosophical Beliefs
- Everyone's journey is unique and everyone will go through their own timeframe for healing. People deserve to be heard and have a supportive and protective space free from judgment.
- People deserve equal access to mental health treatment. The same way that physical health is important, our mental health and well-being is too.
- You are the expert of your life.
- Healing is possible and we all deserve to thrive and move away from a state of survival only.
Counseling Training
- Master of Science in Social Work (MSW), Columbia University
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
- Bachelor of Science in Human Development, University of Arkansas
- Relational Therapy Training
- Trauma Systems Therapy Training
- Motivational Interviewing Training
- Suicide Prevention Training
- Domestic Violence and Safety Planning
Specializations and Experience
- Trauma-Informed Care
- Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Racial Identity
- Grief Counseling
- LGBTQIA+ Counseling
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Strength-Based Therapy (SBT)
- Group facilitation
- Crisis Management and Intervention
- Mentoring
- Conflict Resolution
- Zoom and Telehealth
- Program development/evaluation
- Behavioral intervention
- Cultural sensitivity
- Child and Youth Development
- Assessment and Psychosocial Evaluation
Ashyle as a Person
I was born and raised in Kansas City, Kansas. I've lived in Arkansas, Los Angeles, New York City, and Chicago. I love to read, write YA Fantasy stories, travel, watch movies/tv, and dance. I enjoy spending my free time volunteering with organizations dedicated to anti-racism and providing justice to BIPOC individuals. I like hanging out with friends and people watching while walking downtown. I am a big foodie and enjoy going to brunch and new restaurants. I like going to history museums, walking my dog around the lake, going to the ballet, opera, and theater (pre-COVID), and hanging out with friends exploring a new city.
