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Ashley "Ashton" Bernal

Renewed Hope Counseling
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
9 years in practice
  • Clovis,CA

About Ashley "Ashton" Bernal

As your therapist, I will partner with you in your journey in being comfortable with the uncomfortable. My approach is to help you identify deeply rooted patterns of thoughts and behaviors, connecting them to their presence in current situations, creating a deeper understanding of how thoughts and feelings impact daily functioning. I am trained in EMDR, which is considered one of the most effective forms of therapy in processing trauma/disturbing memories. I individualize my therapeutic approach to fit the needs of each person I work with. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where one can be empowered to work toward change.

Answers  (7)

What happens in a counseling session?

I think this question can vary based on the individual therapist, their style and theoretical orientation. Clients are always welcome to ask questions before and during the process to understand their care. When I am first meeting with a client I take a more formalized approach in our first session... more

The information above is intended as general information...  (more)The information above is intended as general information based on minimal information, and does not constitute health care advice. This information does not constitute communication with a counselor/therapist nor does it create a therapist-client relationship nor any of the privileges that relationship may provide. If you are currently feeling suicidal or are in crisis, call 911 or proceed to your local emergency room.

How can I cope with work related stress better?

I am curious, what makes you stay? Sometimes "managing stress" is only a band aid to a bigger problem. When you ask yourself "what your life would look like without this stress," what do you see? We can easily talk about coping strategies for stress. Mindfulness, deep breathing, meditation... more

The information above is intended as general information...  (more)The information above is intended as general information based on minimal information, and does not constitute health care advice. This information does not constitute communication with a counselor/therapist nor does it create a therapist-client relationship nor any of the privileges that relationship may provide. If you are currently feeling suicidal or are in crisis, call 911 or proceed to your local emergency room.

Do I have too many issues for counseling?

I commend you for taking such a brave step in talking about everything you have been through. No one ever has "too many issues" to seek therapy and I would be willing to bet that many of these concerns are intertwined and once unraveled great relief is to follow. Best of luck on your journey toward... more

The information above is intended as general information...  (more)The information above is intended as general information based on minimal information, and does not constitute health care advice. This information does not constitute communication with a counselor/therapist nor does it create a therapist-client relationship nor any of the privileges that relationship may provide. If you are currently feeling suicidal or are in crisis, call 911 or proceed to your local emergency room.

Is it normal to cry at therapy?

It is completely NORMAL and can be incredibly helpful. Some times we just need to let things out with a good cry. Having a non-judgmental open space to do that be so therapeutic. It sounds like you are really putting in the work you are in need of. 

The information above is intended as general information...  (more)The information above is intended as general information based on minimal information, and does not constitute health care advice. This information does not constitute communication with a counselor/therapist nor does it create a therapist-client relationship nor any of the privileges that relationship may provide. If you are currently feeling suicidal or are in crisis, call 911 or proceed to your local emergency room.

I think my daughter is stressing too much

Being a parent is hard. Finding the balance between nurturing and guidance can be a difficult thing to do. I find that most of us seek validation and sometimes that can be the most helpful thing when experiencing stress and anxiety. Saying something like "Gosh, it sounds like XYZ is really difficult... more

The information above is intended as general information...  (more)The information above is intended as general information based on minimal information, and does not constitute health care advice. This information does not constitute communication with a counselor/therapist nor does it create a therapist-client relationship nor any of the privileges that relationship may provide. If you are currently feeling suicidal or are in crisis, call 911 or proceed to your local emergency room.

How does someone approach a counselor?

The therapeutic relationship is such an important aspect of the process toward healing. Feeling comfortable enough to be vulnerable is a good starting place. Understanding your own goals for therapy, outcomes you hope to get from it, and the approach you need from your therapist. Each therapist is... more

The information above is intended as general information...  (more)The information above is intended as general information based on minimal information, and does not constitute health care advice. This information does not constitute communication with a counselor/therapist nor does it create a therapist-client relationship nor any of the privileges that relationship may provide. If you are currently feeling suicidal or are in crisis, call 911 or proceed to your local emergency room.

How would I know if I have the right therapist?

The therapeutic relationship is such an important aspect of the process toward healing. Feeling comfortable enough to be vulnerable is a good starting place. Understanding your own goals for therapy, outcomes you hope to get from it, and the approach you need from your therapist. Each therapist is... more

The information above is intended as general information...  (more)The information above is intended as general information based on minimal information, and does not constitute health care advice. This information does not constitute communication with a counselor/therapist nor does it create a therapist-client relationship nor any of the privileges that relationship may provide. If you are currently feeling suicidal or are in crisis, call 911 or proceed to your local emergency room.

Focus Areas

Most Helpful

Fundamentals of Counseling
5 answers
Stress Management
2 answers
Anxiety Treatment
1 answer
Depression Treatment
1 answer
Self-esteem Improvement
1 answer