Couples therapists in Springfield, IL

You’re capable and use to managing a lot, but lately life feels overwhelming.

I’m Ashley Walay, LICSW, and I work with BIPOC women and LGBTQ+ individuals, professionals, single parents, and military-connected individuals (including spouses, veterans, contractors, and civilian employees) experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, burnout, chronic stress, and life transitions.

I value clear, direct communication and tailor therapy to your needs, whether you want tools or space to process. Together, we’ll work toward greater clarity, balance, and confidence.

Are you tired of carrying things that are just too heavy for you to carry alone anymore? As a licensed professional counselor, I can help you carry that load. In my 12 years as a counselor, I've worked with families, children, adolescents, and adults of all ages in homes, outpatient offices, and online. I have a Ph.D. in counselor education and supervision, and have taught in graduate counseling programs, but my first love is working directly with individuals who are dealing with the effects of trauma, grief, burnout, or anxiety. I am a Christian and would be happy to incorporate your spiritual beliefs, whether Christian or not, into our work together, if desired.

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who has been working with a variety of clients for 12 years. I believe healing happens through connection, time, and compassion. I’m committed to helping people understand their stories, navigate difficult emotions, and build healthier patterns that support the life they want to live.

I offer a warm, non‐judgmental space where you can explore what’s weighing on you at your own pace. My approach blends solution‐focused practices with a deeply human perspective—honoring your strengths, your resilience, and the unique experiences that shaped you. Whether you’re working through anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, or seeking personal growth, I’m here to walk alongside you with honesty, empathy, and respect.

Clients often describe me as approachable, practical, and easy to talk to. Therapy should be a collaborative process, and I strive to create a space where you feel comfortable being yourself without fear of judgment. My style balances support with practical problem-solving, helping clients gain insight while also developing strategies they can use in everyday life. Above all, I want you to feel heard, understood, and supported as we work toward your goals together.

Often, struggles can become gateways to transformation. Many of the clients I work with are navigating low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, chronic stress, trauma, grief, or major life transitions that leave them feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected. You may be experiencing racing thoughts, emotional exhaustion, relationship difficulties, loss, or uncertainty about your direction in life. When we begin to explore these experiences with compassion and curiosity, new perspectives and meaningful change can emerge.

I believe telling your story in a safe, supportive space can be deeply healing. I want to hear about your hopes, dreams, challenges, and losses. My goal is to help you better understand your experiences, develop emotional resilience, and move toward greater clarity and self-acceptance. You are not alone, and I am here to walk alongside you as you move forward on your journey toward healing and growth.

Hi there, Jenny here! I believe therapy is about learning how to bend without breaking. I specialize in working with individuals and couples facing trauma, chronic stress, and high-demand roles like military, first responder, high level executives AND those that care for them. These are the people that are usually holding it all together for others!

I have a special connection to these populations as an Air Force brat, Air Force Veteran, and Air Force Spouse - quite literally not a day of my life untouched by the military! I have more than 20 years' experience working with children, youth, families and couples around their life challenges and transitions.