Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Hence.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I kind of stumbled upon the mental health field in the 11th. I wanted what I thought was an easy elective (psychology) to complete my high school credits. I thought I could snooze through the class and bump my GPA up with little to no effort. WRONG lol! My teacher Mrs. James really opened my eyes in challenging my view on the world, pushed me to be more open with my thoughts/feelings, and understanding the importance on emotional wellbeing.
The class also helped me realize I’m an extrovert who loves to talk. I’m a chatterbox who can have a dope conversation with the wall lol. I also like helping people so I figured why not make a career of what I love to do which is help and talk to individuals. I also think it’s imperative for the African American community to see and hear a similar face so they can be comfortable getting the services they need as I feel there is still a stigma surrounding mental health in this culture.
Has it been a smooth road?
Heck no lol. I had no idea how to run a private practice. I was used to being a worker bee so it was difficult for me to know all the steps required to initiate my practice. I was unaware of things such as the difference between an LLC or PLLC. It was a hard and tedious process to get accepted on insurance panels, a struggle with knowing what is effective advertising so people know I’m available, making sure I keep all city/state requirements up to date and consistently staying confident that I have what it takes to do this because for sure I doubted myself throughout the entire process.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Hence Counseling story. Tell us more about the business.
I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor in Farmers Branch. I provide mental health services such as individual counseling. Sessions are typically an hour. I specialize in anxiety, depression, self-esteem, career counseling, and multicultural issues.
I’m also a new author. I just wrote a self-care book for the professional woman who thinks she has to have it all together. I’m super excited to tell them that’s a load of crap and helping them be fine with throwing the independent woman role in the trash.
I feel like I stand out in a crowd as I consider myself to be pretty transparent and real. I have no problems confessing I can be a hot mess myself. I’m not perfect nor do I try to be and I think people appreciate my honesty.
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
I really think people will be more comfortable and open with the idea of getting the mental health services they need without shame, apprehension, or feeling as though they are mentally unstable for admitting they need support. People don’t look at mental health care professionals the same way they do other medical professionals but those thoughts and feelings are evolving. I’m seeing much more dialogue about this on TV/social media, celebrities opening up about this and more educational resources on the subject which is great. I’m also hoping in the next decade I can help further spread the word by starting a group practice and hire other counselors who are just as passionate as I am about mental health. I’d also love to write more books, host conferences and be invited for speaking engagements in other cities/states on the subject.
Pricing:
- my book is $12 on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/1795754729
- sessions $90 cash pay but most use their insurance/Employee assistance programs. Copays typically range from $10-40 per session http://www.hencecounseling.com/rates–insurance.html
Contact Info:
- Address:4100 Spring Valley Road, Suite 635, Farmers Branch, TX 75244
- Website: http://www.hencecounseling.com/
- Phone: 469-554-8969
- Email: hencecounseling@gmail.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hencecoun/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/hencecounseling
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hencecounseling
Getting in touch: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
