About Toad Wellness

Welcome! My name is Ashley and I am a professional counselor through the state of Michigan. Like most individuals in a helping profession, my life experiences are the inspiration behind my passion and dedication to helping others. I've been the depressed teenager, the college dropout, the codependent, the single mother, the one living in survival mode, the one desperate for healing. 

The healing journey is a unique path for everyone, so I won't share my whole story here, but along the way, I have found dance to be THE MOST healing practice for me and it has become my passion to share this gift with others. 

While I no longer offer typical talk therapy, my mental health background still plays a huge role in how I design and facilitate my classes. It would be my honor to assist you in the journey back to yourself. It is truly a beautiful, messy ride that is more than worth it. 

There is an undeniable connection between the mind and the body. Intuitive movement encourages you to explore that connection.  

Intuitive movement is NOT choreographed dance. INtuitive movement is about going INward and connecting to your inner self and then expressing it outwardly. 

As a facilitator, I may suggest types of movement to try during a particular song, but it is never required to do what I do. 

The most healing part about intuitive movement is allowing your body to move how it wants to, so client-led movement will always be encouraged and valued. 

*seasonal offering*

Experience the benefits of talk therapy with the added healing elements of nature and movement. 

Clients my choose to walk on paved paths or canopied trails. We can sit on a shaded bench under a tree, or on a blanket in the sun. We can sit near the river and meditate, practice mindfulness with the help of the outdoors or remind ourselves how to intentionally breathe deeply. Each session can be tailored to your individual needs and preferences. 

Sessions are held at a local park. Location disclosed at time of booking. 

After working with numerous adolescents as a mental health counselor, I began to see a disturbing pattern with my teen clients. They would typically come to therapy immediately following some kind of high-risk or crisis situation. I often wondered how their life may have gone differently if they had been introduced to coping skills during childhood. It also repeatedly reminded me of how I felt when I was that age. I had low self-esteem, and my authenticity got lost while trying to fit in.

Mindful Me is my hopeful creation of providing kids with coping skills and a space to celebrate their individuality. For more info, click the "Mindful Me" tab. 

I work with anyone who is interested in this type of therapy regardless of gender, sexual orientation, or any other personal characteristics. Everyone is welcome and valued in my practice. 

For individual intuitive movement, I work with those who are 18 and older. However, I am open to working with younger clients if there is a desire and commitment to participation. 

Group intuitive movement is offered for both adults and children.

Mindful Me is an offering for elementary and middle schoolers. 

Common difficulties that intuitive movement can offer support include:

• Lost sense of self
• Low self-esteem
• Depression
• Anxiety
• ADHD
• Body Image Issues
• Codependency
• Narcissistic Abuse recovery
• Trauma