We recently sat down with Ashley Mauldin, licensed professional counselor and owner of New Awareness Counseling in New Castle, CO, to learn more about her journey as a mental health advocate, entrepreneur, and community leader. From launching her private practice to empowering others through trauma-informed care, Ashley shares how her experience with Roaring Fork Leadership continues to shape her approach to leadership and service.
Which RFL program did you participate in and what drew you to RFL?
I participated in the 2019/2020 cohort of RFL Academy. I had a desire to be more of a leader in the community and felt like I didn’t have experience in this area.
How would you describe your experience in RFL Academy?
RFL was so much more than I thought it was going to be. I discovered that I already had what it takes to lead and just needed more practice and confidence. RFL provided me the knowledge and opportunities to become the leader I am today. I made connections that helped me grow in ways I did not anticipate, particularly emotionally and spiritually. It was a magical experience that I can’t recommend enough.
What challenges have you faced in your leadership journey, and how did RFL prepare you to navigate them?
I am facing some challenges right now being on the cutting edge of bringing psychedelic assisted therapy to the Western Slope. There are misconceptions about this type of therapy and a lot of hurdles to jump to get a healing center started. I have also pushed way out of my comfort zone in trying psychedelic therapy myself. It has been a complete game changer for me personally, despite some difficult journeys along the way.
RFL has helped my confidence in networking, communicating and knowing I have what it takes to lead the way. It reinforced that the journey is not linear and it is how we handle the hurdles that make us great leaders. It has taught me how to lead by example, with empathy and compassion.
How has RFL impacted your leadership journey as a small business owner?
RFL provided the confidence for me to expand my practice by adding two clinicians. I’ve become very comfortable working alone so it was a big decision to bring in people to represent what I’ve worked so hard to build. Being a supervisor has been so rewarding and I love the team I’ve created.
Can you share with us about any continued education or certifications you’re working on for your clients?
My pride and joy in the last few years has been completing over 150 hours of education to become a Licensed Facilitator in Training for Psychedelic Assisted Therapy. I am the 49th person in the state to get this license! Next step for me is to open a licensed micro-healing center sometime in the next few months. I feel so privileged to bring this deep healing modality to the world.
Is there anything else you’re working on or would like to share? Any messages for prospective RFL Academy participants?
My message for prospective participants is to dive in, commit, do the work and you will see yourself change, flourish and become a better leader.
