Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Ashley Ward, LPC-S.
Hi Dr. Ashley, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’m originally from Chicago, IL, and moved to the Houston area about ten years ago. My career in mental health spans more than 18 years, during which I’ve worked in a wide range of settings — from group homes to community agencies to private practice. Each role shaped my clinical lens and strengthened my passion for helping individuals heal and evolve.
In 2020, I opened Becoming You Counseling & Trauma Services in Conroe, TX. What began as a solo practice built from vision, faith, and a whole lot of determination has now grown into a thriving group practice. In 2025, I expanded the team and hired three additional therapists to meet the needs of our growing community.
I also serve as a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and currently supervise five LPC Associates. Supporting new clinicians as they step into their professional identity has become one of the most meaningful aspects of my work.
Looking back, every step — from Chicago to Texas, from staff clinician to business owner, from solo provider to leader of a team — has been grounded in the same mission: helping people become the healthiest, most authentic version of themselves.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road has definitely not been smooth. One of my biggest early struggles was a lack of self-confidence and professional guidance. Even though I was advancing in my career at an agency, I often felt unfulfilled. Over time, it became clear that my values no longer aligned with the organization I was working for, and staying began to feel like I was shrinking myself.
During that same season, I got married and became a mother. After the birth of my daughter, everything shifted. I realized I wanted to build a life and career that reflected who I truly was — not who a position or agency expected me to be. So I took a leap of faith, resigned from my agency job, and committed to working for myself full-time.
Like any entrepreneur, I’ve faced challenges and I know more will come. But each obstacle has strengthened my resilience, sharpened my purpose, and reminded me why I started. I continue to push through adversity with the same mindset that carried me this far: trust the process, do the work, and keep going.
We’ve been impressed with Becoming You Counseling & Trauma Services, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
At Becoming You Counseling & Trauma Services, our mission is simple: to create a space where people feel safe, supported, and seen as they navigate some of life’s most challenging moments. I founded this practice with the belief that healing is possible for everyone — and that with the right guidance, you can step into the most authentic version of yourself.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor with more than 17 years in the mental health field, I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals and families managing depression, anxiety, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. My clinical foundation is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I’ve also completed advanced training in Guiding Women Through Postpartum Depression, Perinatal Loss & Grief, and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD). These specialized skills allow me to support clients through experiences that are often overlooked or misunderstood.
Our practice offers individual therapy, couples counseling, EMDR sessions, and family therapy. What sets us apart is our relational, collaborative approach. We honor the whole person — their story, identity, culture, and strengths. Therapy here is never one-size-fits-all; it’s intentional, individualized work designed to help clients regain clarity, rebuild confidence, and create meaningful change.
Beyond clinical work, I am also an author. I’ve written a children’s book, D.Rae’s Worried, But Why?, which helps young readers understand and talk about worry. I’ve created two reflective journals — Being Present, Not Perfect — along with multiple children’s activity and coloring books celebrating Black history, culture, and confidence. These include:
African American History Heroes: Word Search Activity Book for Kids (featuring 25+ puzzles honoring influential poets, authors, politicians, and historical figures)
Black Girls Coloring Book with Positive Affirmations (a confidence-building coloring experience for girls ages 3–8)
These creative works reflect my commitment to mental wellness, representation, and empowering families with tools that support emotional growth.
I’m equally proud of the growth of Becoming You Counseling & Trauma Services. What began as a solo endeavor has expanded into a team of dedicated clinicians who share the same commitment to trauma-informed, culturally responsive care. As a clinical supervisor, I’m passionate about mentoring new counselors and cultivating a practice rooted in compassion, integrity, and empowerment.
For readers considering therapy or exploring ways to support their emotional well-being, I want you to know this: we meet you exactly where you are. Whether you’re processing trauma, strengthening your marriage, navigating parenthood, or seeking support for your child, our goal is to help you rediscover your strength, find relief, and reclaim your life with confidence.
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
For me, success is rooted in balance. It’s having a life where my professional and personal worlds complement each other rather than compete. I define success as being able to show up fully for my clients, my team, and my community, while also protecting space for myself and my family.
At the end of the day, success looks like peace. It looks like my core family members are healthy, happy, and thriving. It’s creating a life where we are growing, connected, and supported — and where I’m not just achieving professionally, but living with intention and joy.
That balance is what keeps me grounded, and it’s ultimately what I strive for in every season of my life.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.bycts.org/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/becomingyoucounselingservices/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BYCTS/#
Image Credits
The flyers were made by
Robert Schlieman
Professional photos are by Kimberly Milo
