who we are
and how we support our community
Starting Journey Through came from a deeply rooted passion of mine for supporting Central and Northern Minnesota communities. I grew up in these areas, I made friends in these areas, I met my husband in these areas - we call this home. Most of these communities are made up of members who are spread out across wide distances, and they aren't strangers to having to drive 30+ minutes to get groceries or go to a doctor's appointment. I realized very quickly the importance of having services close to home so that people can get the help they need without sacrificing work time, drive time, or family time.
When I'm not in the office, you can usually find me out exploring - from hiking trails and camping trips, to visiting with friends at local coffee shops - I just really enjoy all that Central and Northern Minnesota has to offer.
Ashley Smith, MA, LPCC
owner + therapist
bbht approved supervisor
I have been in the mental health field for the last 10+ years.
I have worked in a variety of settings:
-inpatient hospitalization
-outpatient services
-school-based therapy
-private practice / clinic services
My school background:
Undergraduate at College of St. Benedict's
Master's at St. Mary's University
Specialty Trainings:
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Brainspotting Level 1
My license:
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC)
BBHT approved supervisor
my background
I will support you through a supportive, genuine, and purpose-driven framework. I know change is hard, and I believe that if we can shift our own internal beliefs and narratives that may no longer serve us, and to understand more of the why underneath, it can become easier. I am trained in a variety of evidence-based practices, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I often will use somatic and mindfulness based interventions, like Brainspotting, as I believe in a whole body approach. Your mind and your body work together, and to see sustainable change, we have to look at both aspects.
I work primarily with teens (12+) and adults who are seeking support with life changes, personal growth, anxiety, depression, and trauma. I specifically enjoy working with fellow helpers - such as doctors, nurses, educators, first responders, and therapists - as I know how both rewarding and challenging those professions can be, and helpers need help too.
