Hidden Gems: Meet Ashley Braund of Motivated Minds

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Braund.

Ashley, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My journey began at Shriner’s Hospital for Children in Minneapolis, where I worked as a Child Life Specialist Intern. In this role, I supported children during medical procedures by explaining what to expect in kid-friendly terms and planning engaging activities during their hospital stay. One of the hospital’s primary services was creating prosthetics for children with upper and lower limb differences. Because of this, I often met children who were experiencing trauma related to how they lost their arm, leg, hand, or foot. At the time, I didn’t yet understand what a “trauma response” was, but witnessing their experiences inspired me to learn more. That curiosity sparked my passion for understanding mental health and finding ways to better support the children in my care.

After exploring several graduate programs, I was accepted into the University of Northern Colorado (UNC) and relocated to Colorado in 2018 to pursue my master’s degree. I graduated in 2020—right in the midst of the pandemic—and began working in two group practices, where I gained valuable experience from 2020 to 2024. In July 2024, I opened my own private practice, Motivated Minds, in Timnath, Colorado. I work with a diverse range of clients and specialize in Anxiety, Trauma, Neurodivergence, and First Responder support. In addition to my private practice, I also serve with Restoration Ranch Colorado, a nonprofit organization that provides rest and restoration for First Responders and their families.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
My journey hasn’t been smooth, but it’s been challenging, rewarding, and genuinely fun. Since graduate school, I’ve had what I like to call “blaze orange moments.” The phrase came from one of my professors—blaze orange is a color so bright you can’t miss it, and that’s exactly how these moments felt. They were those unexpected, high-intensity situations where I was faced with complex cases or presenting concerns that even my supervisors hadn’t encountered before. Each one pushed me to think on my feet and provide the best possible care while continuing to learn in real time.

Over the years, I’ve come to appreciate those “blaze orange moments” because they remind me how dynamic and unpredictable this work can be—and that’s part of what I love about it.

Of course, there have also been struggles. Learning to regulate my own emotions and manage the impact of vicarious trauma has been an ongoing process. There have been days when I didn’t use my own coping tools as well as I could have, and I had to learn how to truly “leave work at the door.” Finding that balance between caring deeply for others and caring for myself continues to be an essential—and evolving—part of my professional journey.

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Motivated Minds was created out of my desire to make the therapy world better and more accessible—for both clients and mental health professionals. I also wanted to build something that allowed room for growth, creativity, and, frankly, a little fun. Being my own boss has given me the freedom to bring those ideas to life.

At Motivated Minds, I provide individual therapy for clients ages 2 to 99+ (or, as I like to say, “from toddlers to the end of life”). I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor–Supervisor (LPC-S), which allows me to provide supervision for candidates working toward licensure. I’m also certified in Brainspotting and specialize in working with children, teenagers, and individuals navigating anxiety, trauma, neurodivergence, and first responder stress.

Beyond therapy, Motivated Minds is growing into a professional resource hub designed to support other mental health providers. Every two years, clinicians are required to complete 40 continuing education (CE) credits—a process that can feel overwhelming. My goal is to simplify that experience by offering a membership platform where professionals can easily access diverse CE opportunities, connect with others in the field, and continue learning in a supportive, community-driven environment.

Ultimately, I want Motivated Minds to be more than a therapy practice—it’s a movement toward improving the well-being of both clients and clinicians. By helping providers find balance, reduce burnout, and create meaningful connections, I hope to empower them to stay in the field longer, thrive in their work, and model true work-life integration.

What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
Over the next 5–10 years, I see two major shifts shaping the mental health industry.

First, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) will continue to expand. We’re already seeing individuals turn to AI platforms for mental health support, and while that trend raises important ethical and clinical questions, it also presents opportunities. I believe the key will be learning how to use AI as a tool rather than viewing it as a replacement for human connection. When used thoughtfully, AI could help clinicians streamline documentation, enhance client engagement, and even improve accessibility for underserved populations.

Second, I’ve noticed an ongoing decline in communication and social skills among youth—something that has become even more evident since the COVID-19 pandemic. In the coming years, I think our industry will need to place greater emphasis on helping young people build confidence, emotional intelligence, and real-world interpersonal skills as they transition into adulthood and the workforce.

Overall, I believe the future of mental health care will require a balance between technology and human connection—embracing innovation while continuing to nurture the relational foundation that true healing depends on.

Pricing:

• $150 for 50 minute sessions
• $75 for 30 minute sessions
• $60 for individual supervision sessions

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.motivatedmindstherapy.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/motivatedmindstherapy/

Image Credits
Taken by Kristy Lourance Photography