Ashley Barter

PhD Intern

As a Clinical Doctoral Student, I strongly believe that therapy is not one-size-fits-all. I identify as an integrative therapist, emphasizing flexibility so that treatment can best support clients in meeting their needs and goals. I enjoy working with individuals and couples across a variety of backgrounds and ages, and I bring a multicultural, neurodivergent, and trauma-informed lens to all my work. A majority of my clinical experience has involved working with LGBTQ+ folks. I am passionate about helping clients explore both their gender and sexual identities in a safe and affirming space. I have also worked with clients in the kink and fetish community, as well as those navigating different forms of intimacy in their relationships.

My experience includes implementing multiple treatment approaches such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Emotion-Focused Therapy. I work with adolescents and adults navigating a wide range of life experiences, including those pertaining to ADHD, Autism, Substance Use, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, Eating Disorders, and PTSD. I previously interned at the Clinics at Palo Alto University in their Sexual and Gender Identities Clinic, and I worked as a residential counselor at Victor Treatment Centers.

Outside of my clinical work, I enjoy going to the gym, spending time with my dogs and cats, going to the beach, adventuring to new places, enjoying new restaurants and foods, and exploring alternative fashion, artwork, and tattoos.

Education

PhD, Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in LGBTQ+ Mental Health and Forensic Psychology, Palo Alto University, (Current)

MA, Psychology, Palo Alto University

BA, Psychology, Sonoma State University