Maria Ashmen graduated from Drexel University with a Master of the Arts in Art Therapy and Counseling and has had 6 years of experience prior to working at Thrive. She is currently in the process of licensure for her LAC and ATR-P. Maria has had a wide range of experience utilizing art therapy to support children, adolescents and adults in managing mental health symptoms. While earning her degree, Maria had practicum and internship opportunities at the Children’s Home of Burlington County, Brookfield Elementary, Ancora, Belmont Behavioral Health and The Salvation Army Reed House. During her time at Reed House, Maria created and directed the art therapy program there to provide a safe space for chronically homeless adults to recover from past trauma. As a Master’s level clinician Maria worked for 6 years in a partial care setting with adults who experienced severe and persistent mental health symptoms. Currently Maria provides intensive in-home therapy services in Camden and Burlington counties, as well as outpatient services at The Thrive Network’s Cherry Hill location. She is passionate about engaging others in their journey of healing and recovery. Maria firmly believes in accentuating strengths and promoting self acceptance through the power of personal expression. She utilizes a trauma informed care approach to promote safety, trust, support, and empowerment with individuals she serves. Maria incorporates narratives in art therapy to assist individuals with experienced trauma, abuse and neglect to create emotional distance so that they may safely process traumatic experiences and reconnect with their own voice through creative expression.