Meet Our Staff | Mindful Essence Psychiatry and Wellness

Dr. Ashley Nelson, PhD, MSN, M.Ed, APRN, PMHNP-BC, SANE, CNP

Clinical Director

Hello, I’m Dr. Ashley Nelson. I’m a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and therapist dedicated to helping individuals move from surviving to truly thriving. With a background in psychiatric nursing, emergency medicine, and specialized training as a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE), I bring over a decade of diverse healthcare experience, blending clinical expertise with a deep understanding of human resilience in the face of crisis. My practice focuses on supporting adults, children, and families through life’s challenges — including anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, and the unique stressors faced by military members, first responders, nurses, and other helping professionals.

I have a deep passion for working with survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and complex trauma, providing a safe, compassionate space where healing feels possible. My approach blends evidence-based psychiatric care with practical, real-life strategies, empowering clients to reclaim their sense of control, rebuild confidence, and create lives that feel meaningful again.

I’ve seen countless psychiatrists and therapists over the years. Each time I would leave feeling more discouraged, like no one truly heard me or understood what I was going through. I had honestly lost hope that real help existed for someone like me......But then I found Ashley—and everything changed.

From our very first session, I felt something I hadn’t felt in years: seen. Ashley has a way of making you feel completely welcomed, deeply cared for, and never judged. She listens—not just to respond, but to truly understand. Her empathy is real. Her kindness is felt. And her belief in your ability to heal and grow is contagious.

She celebrates your progress, no matter how small, like it’s her own victory. She reminds you that your wins matter. That you matter. For the first time in a long time, I feel like I’m not alone in this journey. Ashley isn’t just a provider, she’s a partner in your healing. And because of her, I finally have hope again!!

- Current Paitent