Jaime Ascencio

When was the last time you closed your eyes to better feel the sun on your face? Walked barefoot through the grass? Dug your hands into the dirt? Many of us are missing these opportunities for connection with nature, and our health and ability to heal from life’s challenges are suffering as a result.

Many of us – particularly the Autistic, ADHD, and Gifted adults I most often work with – experience additional disconnect due to differences being perceived as deficits. I passionately advocate that these are authentic and valid ways to be in the world and am someone who will join you in navigating the wonders and challenges that are part of these identities.

So let’s slow down. Let’s connect. Let’s find what matters most, what brings you joy, and what changes you need. Let’s heal.

My job as a therapist is to help you try new perspectives, find your strengths, build skills, connect with your inherent worth, and hold you accountable to your goals.

To do this, I primarily use techniques based in humanistic therapy, nature-based therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). In non-technical terms, this means that I value our relationship and already see you as a capable, worthy human being. I’ll show up authentically with you and hope you will feel comfortable being your true self during our time together. I’ll help you change thought patterns and ways of coping that no longer work for you. Together, we’ll dismantle the harmful messages you’ve received from others about your differences and we’ll rebuild with messages of empowerment, acceptance, and celebration. I’ll also support you in finding ways to be fully present in the moment and move toward your values. And if you’d like, I’ll help you find ways to get your hands dirty (literally) in nature.

Outside of therapy, I enjoy spending time with my family (a toddler son, husband, and two pet birds), being outside, eating my daily bowl of ice cream, reading books, and playing soccer. I have a dry sense of humor and am enthusiastic about anything placed in front of me.