Meet Ashley Hudson—Therapist at Best Therapists

Ashley Hudson is a compassionate and straightforward licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 11 years of experience in Orange County, California. Ashley specializes in those dealing with depression, anxiety, sport anxiety, grief, and loss. She also has a particular interest in coaching parents and improving their connection with their teenagers. Clients know her for her caring and empathetic approach, rooted in a commitment to help them overcome obstacles and reach their full potential. Ashley's therapeutic style is marked by a gentle yet direct approach, aimed at understanding and addressing the root causes of emotional pain. She utilizes a blend of attachment theory, strength-based techniques, and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to facilitate personal growth, boost self-esteem, and enhance clients' confidence in expressing their emotions. Her goal is to equip teens and young adults with the tools needed to find relief and create lasting, positive change in their lives. With a background in Psychology from the University of California, Davis, and a master's degree in Clinical Psychology from Azusa Pacific University, Ashley's passion for helping adolescents and young adults stems from her own challenging experiences during those formative years. Her extensive knowledge and experience include working in both non-public and public school systems, providing her with a deep understanding of the unique pressures faced by today's youth.

Growing up I remember the loneliness and rollercoaster of emotions as a teen. I was a varsity athlete, AP student, and worked hard to excel to becoming a D1 collegiate athlete. Just because everything seemed good on the outside doesn't mean it wasn’t tough on the inside. It was precisely these experiences that motivated me to become a teen therapist. I deeply resonate with the relentless pursuit of perfection and the constant quest to measure up as a teenager. For fear of judgment, I had a lot of people cheering in my corner but didn’t feel comfortable or safe showing people my true self. In my practice, I encounter many teens who share a similar desire—to find their place, confide in someone close to them, and feel confident without the overwhelming burden of anxiety. Lots of teens I see struggle with caring about what others think, trying to please people, and putting their own needs on the back-burner. My mission is to guide teens and young adults in establishing healthy boundaries, cultivating self-compassion, and ultimately flourishing in a world that can often feel chaotic and demanding.

Masters of Clinical Psychology | Azusa Pacific University, 2011