Ascent Therapy

“After experiencing repeated trauma, dismissal, and emotional harm from numerous medical professionals, I had almost given up on finding someone who would truly understand the complexity of my needs — especially as an autistic adult living with complex PTSD. Dr. Kelsey McClellan changed that. She first read my story in a private support group and, recognizing the urgency of my situation, took immediate action. Her staff bypassed a six-month waitlist and scheduled me promptly — an act of compassion that already meant the world to me. When I arrived at Ascent Therapy, I was anxious and overwhelmed. I brought 175 pages of documentation — my medical and trauma history from age 19 to the present — desperately hoping someone would take me seriously. And they did. From the moment I walked in, the staff was incredibly patient, respectful, and knowledgeable. They understood the importance of trauma-informed care and treated me as a whole person, not a diagnosis. During the session, I had vivid flashbacks, and instead of reacting with frustration or fear, they gently and skillfully helped ground me. I was overstimulated from my autism, but they didn’t shame or rush me. They adapted. They cared. What stood out even more was how they respected my cultural values and allowed me to guide the session through a client-centered approach. I felt seen, heard, and safe — possibly for the first time in a clinical setting. I left the office in tears — not from fear or shame, but from relief. Someone had finally listened. Someone had finally not been abusive. It was the kind of care every survivor deserves but so few receive. To Dr. McClellan and the team at Ascent Therapy: thank you. You gave me more than a session — you gave me hope. — Rebecca Clark”