Ashley Shepard (She/her)

You don’t have to shrink to survive. You deserve to take up space—messy, beautiful, complicated space—just as you are.

If you're feeling overwhelmed by intense emotions, identity questions, family conflict, or the weight of chronic pain and/or trauma, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to navigate it alone. Together, we’ll create a space where you feel truly seen, safe, and supported. A space where you don’t have to explain yourself to be understood.

Therapy with me is a collaborative journey tailored to your needs. You are the expert of your story, and I’m here to support and guide you. Together, we’ll explore the patterns, experiences, and feelings that shape your life, helping you connect more deeply with yourself and find ways to cope and heal. Healing is personal and non-linear, and we’ll move at a pace that feels right for

you—with compassion and respect every step of the way.

I specialize in working with LGBTQIA2S+ teens, adolescents (ages 11-45), and young adults navigating trauma, suicidality, identity exploration, family conflict, and the emotional toll of chronic pain or illness—particularly for those impacted by systemic oppression and sexual trauma.

My approach is rooted in anti-racist, anti-oppressive, and intersectional values that honor the full complexity of who you are. As a queer therapist who embraces Health at Every Size (HAES), I’m committed to creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where conversations about

gender, sexuality, body image, and identity are met with care. At the heart of my work is a deep belief in authenticity, equity, and the inherent worth of every person. I show up with intentional curiosity and compassion, holding space for your whole self—mind, body, and spirit.

I'm not just here as a therapist—I'm also a queer, disabled woman living with chronic pain and illnesses. I bring lived experiences, deep empathy, and an intimate understanding of what it means to feel invisible or pressured to shrink yourself to fit into systems that weren’t built for you. This personal truth fuels my commitment to anti-oppressive, anti-racist, anti-ableist, and justice-centered work—because real healing requires not just care, but transformation of the

systems that harm us. It’s this passion that drives me to create a space where you are genuinely seen, respected, and supported in your wholeness.

You don’t have to earn care. You don’t have to do it alone. I’m here to walk beside you—as you reclaim your voice, your story, and your space. If this resonates with you, I invite you to reach out by email or phone to schedule an appointment

or a free 15–30 minute consultation.

I am currently working towards LPCC licensure and am under the supervision of Chelsea Deklotz, LPCC.

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