Some things you may want to know about Tracey Ashcraft, M.A., L.P.C.

Why am I a counselor?

I had been working in the pharmaceutical industry sharing information on the treatment of depression and mood disorders to doctors and other medical professionals.  My extensive training included a preceptorship at the Medical University of South Carolina, Institute of Psychiatry, and Centennial Peaks Psychiatric Hospital. I decided to pursue a career as a counselor so that I could help people in a more direct way.

I made a bold move and decided to go back to school and get a Masters in Arts in Counseling. Ahh, finally my life experiences were starting to come together and make sense.  I was in the right place.  I completed an internship at Access Counseling in Boulder, CO and then graduated with honors from Regis University in Denver.  I started my private practice in 2004.  I have enjoyed this work more than any other work I have done.  People often ask me, “How can you sit all day and listen to people’s problems? Isn’t it depressing?”  I let them know that it’s quite the opposite. Witnessing clients breath a sigh of relief, start to feel more hopeful and get their lives on track is rewarding and uplifting.  I feel lucky.

Who do I work best with?

My clients are quite varied.  I work with adult individuals, couples and students.  I enjoy helping adults overcome neglect from childhood and helping couples restore intimacy and put the fun back in their relationships.  I also have a knack for helping college students and recent grads feel more motivated, clear about their plans, and confident in their lives.

Who am I?

I have lived in Colorado for over 18 years.  The near eternal sunshine here is very energizing to me.  I am inspired by the landscapes and enjoy day hikes in the foothills.  I find the lifestyle in Colorado to be a gentler pace than my East Coast upbringing. What you may notice is that I have a gentle directness that can be helpful in your process.  Clients say that they can open up pretty easily with me because they find I am real.  Even though the subjects we discuss may be heavy, clients sometimes find they are able to laugh during the sessions.

In addition to being a private practice psychotherapist, I am a wife and a mom.  My husband and I have been married for 15 years. I am not perfect and continue to learn and grow as a person myself.  I consider myself to be a “fellow traveler” in this life and welcome the opportunity to assist you in yours.