Ashley Smilde
Registered Psychotherapist Qualifying
Who do I see? Teens/Adolescents (12–17), Adults 18+, and couples.
What concerns do I work with? Past experiences and trauma, relationships, intimacy, neurodivergence, emotional regulation, and self understanding.
I integrate Emotion-Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems, existential therapy, narrative therapy, and polyvagal-informed approaches. My style is gentle, curious, and attuned, while also grounded and honest.
If you’re interested in working together, you can book a Free Consultation or Intake session.
My Approach
Hello, I’m Ashley.
I believe therapy is most helpful when you feel genuinely safe to show up as yourself. My goal is to create a space grounded in warmth, respect, and gentle curiosity, where every part of your experience is welcome and you don’t feel judged, rushed, or reduced to a diagnosis.
I take a trauma-informed, collaborative approach to therapy. Rather than assuming there is one “right” way to heal, I work alongside you to understand your unique experiences, honour your pace, and build on the strengths you already carry. I believe meaningful change happens when people feel understood, emotionally safe, and empowered to move toward a life that feels authentic and connected.
I’m especially drawn to the complexity of relationships and our deep human need for connection. Whether I’m working with an individual or a couple, I value helping people better understand themselves, strengthen their relationships, and navigate vulnerability with greater confidence and compassion. For couples, this often includes exploring emotional and sexual intimacy as important parts of feeling close, secure, and understood.
Clients often describe me as calm, approachable, and easy to talk to. I bring my authentic self into the room and believe therapy doesn’t need to feel formal or distant to be meaningful. There is room for uncertainty, humour, difficult emotions, and moments of joy, all of which are part of being human.
Outside the therapy room, I enjoy painting, collage, crochet, reading, music, and spending time with the people and pets who help me slow down and reconnect with myself.