Psychotherapist
Dominique Pepe
BS, MS, RMHCI
Email :
Psychotherapist
“When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves.”
Victor Frankl
Hi, I’m Ashley, and if you’re reading this, you’re likely searching for support, clarity, or just someone who gets it. Whether you’re navigating the ups and downs of a relationship, wrestling with anxiety, or trying to make sense of emotions that feel all over the place, you’re in the right place. Therapy can be a bit intimidating at first—kind of like the awkward feeling of walking into a room full of strangers and not knowing where to sit. But let me assure you, once we start working together, that awkwardness will fade, and you’ll realize you’ve found a space where you can let your guard down.
I’m passionate about helping both couples and individuals navigate relationship challenges. While I’m working toward specialization in couples therapy, I genuinely enjoy guiding partners through tough conversations and helping them strengthen their emotional connection. I also love working with individuals who are dealing with relationship stress—whether it’s figuring out communication, rebuilding trust, or navigating the ups and downs of intimacy. Together, we’ll work on finding clarity and building healthier, stronger relationships.
Beyond relationships, I’m also here for individuals dealing with anxiety, trauma, or just a sense of feeling stuck. Life can feel overwhelming, but through techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness, we’ll work on finding clarity and peace—even in the chaos. And for my clients struggling with self-worth or navigating their identity (LGBTQIA+ included), you’ll always have a safe, nonjudgmental space with me.
And let’s not forget—you don’t have to do this all perfectly. Progress isn’t about perfection; it’s about taking one step at a time. Sometimes we’ll laugh, sometimes we’ll tackle the hard stuff, but I’ll be with you through it all.
I believe in therapy that feels human, approachable, and full of empathy. No matter how messy things feel, I’m always going to be in your corner, rooting for you to find the peace and balance you deserve.
License:
Licensed Mental Health Counselor Intern
Areas of Specialties
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder,
- Social Anxiety Disorder,
- Major Depressive Disorder,
- PTSD,
- Intergenerational Family Dynamics,
- Attachment-Based Issues
Population Served:
Adults (19-65)
Advanced Trainings:
The main modalities I use:
- Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT),
- Motivational Interviewing
- Solution Focused
- Emotions-Focused Therapy,
- Attachment Theory
- Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Advanced Trainings:
The main modalities I use:
- Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT),
- Motivational Interviewing
- Solution Focused
- Emotions-Focused Therapy,
- Attachment Theory
- Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Hobbies/Talents/Gifts Interesting Facts:
I find balance and mental clarity through training in mixed martial arts: grappling, jiu-jitsu, wrestling, and kickboxing. As a purple belt, I’m dedicated to continuing my journey toward earning my black belt!
Education:
Master of Science in Psychology, Professional Counseling – Florida International University, Miami, FL
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology & Neuroscience – The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
License
Licensed Mental Health Counselor Intern
Areas of Specialties
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder,
- Social Anxiety Disorder,
- Major Depressive Disorder,
- PTSD,
- Intergenerational Family Dynamics,
- Attachment-Based Issues
Population Served:
Adults (19-65)
Advanced Trainings:
The main modalities I use:
- Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT),
- Motivational Interviewing
- Solution Focused
- Emotions-Focused Therapy,
- Attachment Theory
- Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Hobbies/Talents/Gifts Interesting Facts:
I find balance and mental clarity through training in mixed martial arts: grappling, jiu-jitsu, wrestling, and kickboxing. As a purple belt, I’m dedicated to continuing my journey toward earning my black belt!
Education
Master
Master of Science in Psychology, Professional Counseling – Florida International University, Miami, FL
Bachelor
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology & Neuroscience – The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
Psychotherapist
“I believe every person carries an extraordinary capacity for healing, purpose, and change. If you feel lost right now, you don’t have to find your way alone — and if you’ve lost hope, I will hold it with you until you’re ready to carry it yourself. No human being is beyond healing.”
I believe deeply in people and in the human capacity for healing, resilience, and meaningful change. No matter where you are in your journey — whether you feel overwhelmed, stuck, disconnected, or exhausted from carrying life’s weight — I want you to know that healing is possible. You do not have to navigate it alone. My goal is to meet you exactly where you are and create a space where you feel seen, understood, and genuinely supported.
Many of the individuals I work with are navigating addiction recovery, anxiety, trauma, major life transitions, or periods of feeling lost from themselves. Sometimes life experiences, stress, or past pain can disconnect us from who we truly are. Together, we work to rebuild self-trust, strengthen emotional resilience, and reconnect you with your authentic self and personal values.
My approach integrates mindfulness-based therapy, nervous system regulation, neuroscience-informed practices, and evidence-based clinical interventions. I incorporate principles of neuroplasticity to help clients understand how change is not only emotional but biological — the brain and body are capable of learning new patterns, creating new pathways, and supporting lasting growth. When appropriate, I also welcome spirituality and meaning-making into the therapeutic process, honoring each client’s unique beliefs and experiences.
I view setbacks not as failures, but as part of being human. Healing is rarely linear, and progress often comes through compassion, curiosity, and patience with ourselves. Therapy with me is collaborative, supportive, and grounded in both accountability and hope. My intention is to help you move beyond survival mode toward a life that feels purposeful, balanced, and fulfilling.
Above all, I believe every person carries an extraordinary capacity for change. If hope feels distant right now, I will help hold it with you until you are ready to carry it yourself. Together, we can work toward healing, recovery, and creating a life that feels aligned with who you truly are.
Licensure:
RMHCI IMH 28757
Affiliations/Personal Projects/Awards/Accomplishments:
ACA, APA, FMHCA, NAADAC, FLAAP, NAATP
Educational Background:
- Master of Science (M.S.), Clinical Mental Health Counseling – Nova Southeastern University, Davie, FL – 2022
- Bachelor of Science (B.S.), Public Health, Exercise Science & Nutrition – Southern Connecticut State University, New Haven, CT – 2011
Areas of Specialties:
- Substance Use & Recovery
- Dual Diagnosis
- Anxiety & Stress Disorders
- Trauma & Trauma Recovery
- Life Transitions
- Performance Psychology
- Self-Esteem & Identity Development
- Burnout & Emotional Exhaustion
Population Served:
- Older Adults (66-99)
- Adults (19-65)
Issues Treated:
- Addiction
- Trauma
- Co-occurring Disorders
- Anxiety
- Depression
- ADHD
- Relationship Challenges
- Grief & Loss
- Life Adjustment
- Stress Management
Hobbies/Talents/Gifts Interesting Facts:
Outside of my clinical work, I enjoy giving back. I volunteer as a crisis counselor for first responders and help rescue animals. Music and movement are big parts of my life — I love playing the piano, dancing, and using music as a way to recharge and express creativity.
I practice meditation and yoga regularly and enjoy staying active through basketball, rugby, pickleball, paddleboarding, skimboarding, and mixed martial arts.
Choosing the right support matters and we are here to make that process simple and thoughtful.
If this provider’s experience and approach align with your needs, schedule your first session below – our team will guide and support you every step of the way.