hi! i'm ashlea

My journey to the mental health field has taken a distinctive route through the world of first response. For nearly a decade, I served in public safety as a firefighter and paramedic in Longmont, Colorado, where I developed firsthand understanding of the challenges faced by emergency personnel. This lived experience as a first responder fuels my passion for mental health work, particularly with those carrying trauma histories. My public safety career encompassed diverse roles including membership on the Boulder County Regional Hazmat Team, participation in the Boulder County Tox Medic Program, work as an EMS educator and FI, and service as a wildland firefighter.

My educational background provides a strong theoretical complement to my practical experience. I hold a Bachelor's degree in Psychology with an emphasis in mental health and clinical counseling, as well as a Master's degree in mental health and clinical counseling. Currently, I'm expanding my therapeutic toolkit through additional education and certification in interpersonal hypnosis and psychedelic-assisted therapy with ketamine.

I share my life with my spouse, a retired Air Force member, which gives me additional insight into the unique challenges faced by military personnel and their families. Together, we're proud parents to our beloved fur babies who bring joy and balance to our home. 

Early in my firefighting career, a wise mentor recognized my natural gift for caring and walking alongside others through difficult times. Against my initial skepticism, they encouraged me to continue my education and remain open to where my path might lead. This foresight proved invaluable, as I now work full-time in the mental health field, primarily serving first responders, military personnel, and their family members. It's been a profound blessing to continue serving my community as a different kind of helper.

I often joke that I'm "not a good traditional therapist" – sometimes I cuss or wear a hat during sessions. However, what defines my practice is authentic presence and genuine connection. I firmly believe that the therapeutic relationship is the most critical element in healing work. My approach incorporates a variety of tools and progressive therapies, drawing from the rich array of resources available in modern mental health practice.

Above all, I am passionate about helping the helpers – those who dedicate their lives to serving others often at great personal cost. My unique background creates a bridge of understanding that allows me to connect with first responders and military personnel in ways that traditional therapists might not. This connection forms the foundation for meaningful therapeutic work and lasting healing.

After dedicating 23 years as a Fire Fighter/Paramedic, Michael Major built a distinguished career on the front lines of emergency response and community service. Rising through the ranks to the position of Lieutenant, he demonstrated exceptional leadership capabilities while overseeing station operations and mentoring junior personnel. Throughout his tenure, he mastered critical life-saving techniques while developing exceptional skills in crisis management, team leadership, and split-second decision making. As a valued member of the SWAT team serving as a tactical medic, he provided essential medical support during high-risk operations, further honing his ability to perform under extreme pressure. His unwavering commitment to public safety earned him numerous commendations and the deep respect of colleagues and community members alike. Michael's extensive experience navigating high-stress situations has provided him with unique insights into human resilience and the capacity for growth under pressure.

Michael is a devoted family man who, alongside his spouse, has successfully raised their children who are now adults pursuing their own paths. The journey of parenthood has enriched his understanding of personal development and the importance of guidance during life's transitions. His family remains his foundation and source of inspiration as he embarks on this new chapter of his career.

Transitioning from a career focused on saving lives in emergency situations to one centered on helping others thrive in their everyday lives has been transformative for Michael. His personal growth journey awakened a passion for guiding others through their own transformations. Drawing from decades of witnessing human resilience in extreme circumstances, Michael combines practical emergency response experience with an empathetic coaching approach tailored to each individual's needs.

Michael believes everyone has untapped potential waiting to be discovered. His approach is deeply collaborative and forward-looking: "Together we will learn tools and techniques to navigate through life's daily challenges. We will face our past in order to understand our present." Michael emphasizes authenticity and mindfulness in his work, guiding clients to embrace their true selves while developing resilience for life's obstacles. His ultimate goal is transformation: "Together, let us live our authentic self, live in constant gratitude, change our perspective, and truly live freely and in peace." By focusing on gratitude practice and perspective shifts, Michael helps clients break free from limiting beliefs and find lasting peace in their daily lives.