Ashley Vance, Clinical intern

Hi there! My name is Ashley Vance (she/her/hers) and I am a Clinical Intern in Art Therapy and Counseling and a graduate student at Southwestern College. I am passionate about creating affirming, collaborative spaces where clients feel seen, heard, and empowered in their healing journeys. My work is grounded in person-centered and trauma-informed approaches, and I especially enjoy supporting LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent individuals.

I was drawn to the field of art therapy through my own experiences with the healing power of creative expression. I believe art can offer connection, insight, and healing in ways words sometimes cannot. I love all art forms and am especially drawn to mixed media expression, valuing creativity as both a therapeutic tool and a way of honoring each person’s unique story.

I approach counseling from a strengths-based perspective that emphasizes authenticity, compassion, and advocacy. My goal is to create a therapeutic environment where clients feel safe exploring their experiences, identities, emotions, and resilience at their own pace.

Locations: Telehealth, Urbandale, Grinnell, and Marshalltown