Thriving with Anxiety and Depression

Ashley J. Smith, PhD, is a licensed clinical psychologist and co-founder of Peak Mind: The Center for Psychological Strength. She earned her PhD in Clinical Psychology from the University of Nebraska- Lincoln. She has worked in children’s hospitals, an anxiety specialty center, and now in private practice. She specializes in the treatment of anxiety and related disorders using a specific type of therapy called Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. In addition to clinical work, she maintains active involvement in the Anxiety and Depression Association of America and regularly presents trainings on local and national levels. She has published a book, peer-reviewed articles and chapters, and numerous online articles and blog posts. Through her work with Peak Mind, she has created digital programs and resources to help make psychological tools and information more widely available. Ashley is also open about living – and learning to thrive – with a visual impairment. She has a rare degenerative retinal disease that makes her legally, and increasingly, blind. Despite vision loss, she has actively pursued happiness by carving out a life full of strong connections, high ambitions, and exciting adventures. She is passionate about sharing the principles of CBT, positive psychology, and applied neuroscience to help others live bold, fulfilling lives.