Dr. Ashley Gerken
CLINICAL DIRECTOR, PsyD, LPCC
Providing trauma-focused clinical leadership grounded in evidence-based care, professional development, and meeting each client where they are.
10+
Years in Behavioral Health
DOCTORATE
Applied Clinical Psychology
FOCUS
Trauma-Focused Care
About Ashley
Dr. Ashley Gerken has over 10 years of experience working in residential and outpatient behavioral health settings, supporting individuals with mental health, substance use, and dual diagnosis concerns. As Clinical Director, she brings extensive clinical experience and a strong focus on trauma-informed care to her work with clients and clinical teams.
Ashley’s own healing journey inspired her to pursue a career in behavioral health and continues to shape how she approaches her work. She believes in meeting each person exactly where they are while helping clinicians strengthen their understanding of trauma and how it can manifest differently in each individual.
Treatment Approach
Ashley uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) as foundational approaches, helping clients develop skills they can understand and apply in everyday life. She also incorporates trauma-focused modalities, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Internal Family Systems (IFS), based on each client’s individual needs.
Education
Ashley earned bachelor’s degrees in Criminal Justice and Psychology from Urbana University, where she attended on an academic and athletic scholarship. She later earned a master’s degree in Forensic Psychology and a doctorate in Applied Clinical Psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. She is also a fully licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC).
Areas of Focus
Outside the Office
Outside of work, Ashley is an avid reader and can often be found with her Kindle in hand or spending time with her two daughters. She has also been described as a “tattooed Lydia” from Beetlejuice, a description that reflects a little of her personality beyond her clinical work.
Ready to Take the First Step?
Our team is here to support you or your loved one on the path to healing and lasting recovery.
INFORMATION REQUEST
CONTACT INFORMATION
ADDRESS
23712 Birtcher Drive,
Lake Forest, CA 92630
PHONE:
866-955-1607
EMAIL:
ADMISSIONS@12SOUTHRECOVERY.COM
