Ashley Shepard (She/her)

Navigating the complexities of emotions, relationships, societal pressures, and family

expectations can be incredibly challenging, especially when you're in the process of figuring out

who you are. If you're struggling with intense emotions, identity questions, or feelings of being

misunderstood, I’m here to support you. The pressures of existing today can be immense, but

you don’t have to face these challenges alone.

I offer a safe, affirming space where you can be yourself, express your thoughts freely, and feel

genuinely heard. My therapeutic approach is grounded in anti-racist, anti-oppressive, and

intersectional principles, ensuring that our work together respects and addresses the unique

layers of your identity. As a queer therapist who embraces health at every size (HAES), I’m

committed to creating a supportive, non-judgmental space where conversations about gender,

sexuality, and body image are approached with genuine understanding and respect.

I specialize in working with teens and adolescents (ages 11 and up), and young adults who face

issues such as:

● Complex trauma and CPTSD

● Trauma and PTSD

● Family issues

● Teen struggles

● Depression

● Anxiety

● Gender and sexuality struggles

● Body image issues

● Chronic pain

● Women’s issues

My approach may include:

● Trauma-Focused Care: Acknowledging and understanding how historical and systemic

traumas shape your current experiences, and providing support that is mindful of these

layers.

● Feminist Therapy: Challenging societal, cultural, and political inequities while fostering

empowerment and personal growth through an equitable lens.

● Person-Centered Therapy: Valuing you as the expert on your own life, with me acting

as a supportive guide in your journey.

● Systemic Approach: Investigating how intersecting factors such as race, gender, class,

sexuality, etc., influence your well-being, and addressing how various forms of

oppression may impact your life.

● Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy: Using mindfulness techniques to help you

manage stress and remain present in the moment.

● Attachment Theory: Exploring how your early relationships affect your current

emotional responses and interactions.

● Psychodynamic Practices: Delving into unconscious patterns and past experiences

that may be influencing your current behavior and feelings.

Together, we will navigate your unique challenges, develop healthy coping strategies, and build

resilience. My goal is to help you feel more in control, understood, and empowered in your daily

life. By focusing on your strengths and creating a space where you are valued and supported,

we can work toward a future where you feel confident in your authentic self.

Let’s embark on this journey together, working towards a more fulfilling and authentic life where

you can thrive and be your authentic self!

Education:

I am currently in the process of completing my Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology

at the University of St. Thomas and am under the supervision of Tanya Brown, LMFT.

Contact Information:

Email: ashley@vibrantlifetherapyclinic.com

Phone: 612-547-8704

Accepted Insurances:

Blue Cross Blue Shield

Health Partners

Cigna

Aetna

Ucare

Hennepin Healthcare

UMR

MA/PMAP