I’m Ashley Pichardo, a licensed therapist serving clients in New York and New Jersey.

Growing up in the Bronx, raised by a single mother in public housing, I witnessed the resilience required to navigate life's challenges. As a first-generation college graduate and business owner, I understand that personal struggles can be complex and layered. My family’s journey, much like that of many others, included mental health challenges, financial instability, and a constant state of “survival mode.”

It wasn't until later in my life that I recognized these experiences as part of a cycle of intergenerational trauma—unresolved pain and stress passed down through generations. This recognition marked a pivotal turning point for me. I began to approach life differently, releasing the fear of “the other shoe will drop,” and instead focused on building a life rooted in purpose, connection, and healing.

I could articulate what I was experiencing for the first time, and that change transformed my life. I learned to let go of the mindset that kept me in perpetual readiness for disaster.

Today, my mission is to help others do the same—break free from old patterns, heal profoundly, and reconnect with their true selves.

“To heal is to touch with love that which was previously touched by fear.”
— Stephen Levine

Credentials & Experience

  • Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York (License #009644)

  • Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey (License #37PC00824800)

  • Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling – Long Island University, Brooklyn Campus

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, minor in Writing – College of Mount Saint Vincent

Specialized Training

  • Two-year program at The Institute for Contemporary Psychotherapy, training in trauma theory, neurobiology, and trauma-specific modalities.

  • A body-based approach that helps clients heal from distressing experiences by reprocessing traumatic memories.

  • AEDP uses the therapeutic relationship to facilitate healing, aiming to "undo aloneness" and promote emotional transformation.

My Approach to Therapy

Culturally Humble

Therapy should honor your unique identity and background. I respect how intergenerational experiences—marked by resilience and trauma—shape who we are, working with you in a way that aligns with your values and lived experiences.

Trauma-Informed

I prioritize safety, healing, and recovery with an approach sensitive to the impact of trauma, helping you process and move beyond difficult experiences.

Anti-Racist & Anti-Oppressive

I recognize how power and privilege impact emotional well-being. My practice actively challenges these dynamics, creating an inclusive and supportive space for all identities.

Compassionate & Empowering

Therapy should foster self-kindness and empower you to take control of your life. My approach helps you transform feelings of powerlessness into confidence, reconnecting you with your inner strength.

Collaborative

Therapy is a partnership. We’ll work together to engage in open, supportive dialogues, allowing your goals, pace, and input to guide our sessions.

“My greatest joy is helping people release their trauma and change their outlook on life. Everyone has a right to heal.”
— Ashley Pichardo, LMHC

Get to Know Me (Fun Facts!)

Reading

I love to read. You can find me most days curled up on my couch with a book in my Comfy. Favorite Books Read: Olga Dies Dreaming and The Midnight Library.

 

Tea Drinker

I don’t like coffee. It actually makes me sleepy! No shade to my coffee drinkers out there. Favorite teas to drink are: green tea, lavender tea, raspberry tea & elderberry tea. Can’t live without my matcha green tea latte!

 

Snacks

Honestly, who doesn’t love a good snack? I pride myself on introducing snacks to people. All time favorite snack is: Birthday cake Oreos (seriously the best ever).

Yoga

In hopes for looking for something to help move my body - during the pandemic- I fell in love with yoga. It helped me reconnect with my body and build my emotional wellbeing. I do ten minutes on most days- when I’m strapped for time - and thats more than enough.

Let’s Work Together

In therapy, you’ll develop a deep awareness of yourself, uncover the roots of your emotions, and learn practical healing methods. If you’re ready to make meaningful changes, I’m here to support you every step of the way.