Get to know Austin Urban Sanctuary’s team of specialists

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The values that guide our practice

Compassion & safety

We cultivate a warm, non-judgmental space where you feel safe, heard, and deeply understood.

Personalized approach

These practices cultivate present-moment awareness, helping you manage difficult emotions and reduce stress. 

Empowerment & growth

We help you discover and leverage your inherent strengths, equipping you with the tools needed to overcome challenges and thrive.

Evidence-based care

We are committed to utilizing therapies grounded in research, such as EMDR, DBT, and ERP.

Meet our team

Claire Ashton Headshot

Claire Ashton, LPC-S, LMFT-S, EMDR-C

Founder, EMDRIA-Approved Consultant
Kacie Stokes Headshot

Kacie Stokes, LMSW

Therapist
Victoria Reyna Headshot

Victoria Reyna, LPC, NCC, CRC

Therapist
Todd Smith Headshot

Todd Smith, M.S., LCSW

Therapist

Andrew Dochen, LMSW

Therapist
Vaughn Hancock Headshot

Vaughn Hancock, LPC-S

Therapist

Our expertise

At Austin Urban Sanctuary, our team is comprised of highly skilled therapists, each deeply committed to continuous learning and advanced training in a diverse range of evidence-based modalities. We bring a collective depth of knowledge to address your unique needs.

  • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
  • ERP for Anxiety and OCD
  • Neurodivergent-Affirming Care


Our team members have undergone specialized training and are continually advancing their skills to provide the most effective, compassionate, specialized care.

Our approach

At Austin Urban Sanctuary, our approach is centered on you as a unique individual with your own story. We are committed to providing a warm, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where you feel truly supported.

Our therapists utilize an advanced blend of evidence-based modalities, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and elements of attachment theory and structural family therapy.

We work collaboratively as your accepting and committed advocates, helping you to identify and build upon your innate strengths, navigate challenges, and ultimately create a more fulfilling and authentic life.

Common questions.

In your initial 90-minute intake assessment, we’ll focus on understanding your unique story, current challenges, and goals for therapy. This allows us to determine the best therapeutic approach and ensure we’re a good fit for your healing journey.

We do not take insurance, however, we are happy to provide a summary bill (often called a “superbill”) on a monthly basis that you may file with your insurance for out of network benefits.

Our team specializes in a wide range of issues including trauma (especially recurring developmental trauma), anxiety disorders, mood disorders, OCD, personality disorders, substance abuse, and challenges related to life transitions. We also have particular expertise in supporting neurodiverse individuals and those in creative fields.

DBT a skills-based therapy developed for individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder to address issues of emotional dysregulation and difficulty tolerating distress. Most specifically it aims to reduce suicidality, self-injuring behaviors, substance abuse, temper outbursts, high-risk behaviors and reduce recurring inpatient hospitalizations.

DBT is ideal for anybody with difficulty in their interpersonal relationships, trouble with emotion regulation and impulsivity, and difficulty tolerating distress. Many of our clients have personality disorders, substance abuse issues, bipolar disorder, mood and anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, ADHD, Autism, and giftedness – or some combination of these diagnoses.

No, you do not. DBT uses practical skills that are helpful for most people. DBT addresses acuity when it arises, but it also address relationship-interfering behaviors, and quality of life issues like finding meaning and purposes through mastery and reducing social anxiety and isolation.

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a specialized therapy used to alleviate distress associated with traumatic memories, often without extensive verbal retelling. DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) is a comprehensive therapy focused on teaching skills for emotion regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and mindfulness, particularly helpful for managing intense emotions and impulsive behaviors. We often integrate both modalities for comprehensive care.

You may update your credit card online at https://www.claireashton.com/clientportal, by calling our main line at (512) 943-7868, or by reaching out to your provider at their direct phone number.

Schedule an assessment with us, and we’ll be happy to guide you to the best path for you. We have a large partner network of treatment providers including psychiatrists, neuropsychological testing, ketamine treatment providers, equine therapists, specialty or private schools in Austin, intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization programs, and more. We’re happy to asses your needs and provide a recommendation around in-house services, make specialized referrals, or a combination of both.

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Let's find the best approach to support your unique healing journey

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Claire Ashton Headshot

Claire Ashton, LPC-S, LMFT-S, EMDR-C

Claire Ashton,

LPC-S, LMFT-S, EMDR-C

Founder, EMDRIA-Approved Consultant

Claire Ashton is a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S) and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Supervisor (LMFT-S). She holds a Bachelor of Science in Advertising from the University of Texas at Austin, a certification in Paralegal Studies from Duke University, and a Master of Arts in Counseling from St. Edward’s University.

Claire practiced professionally at Ascension Seton’s Behavioral Health Program where she facilitated DBT skills groups in the Adult Intensive Outpatient Program. She works regularly with teens, adults and families presenting with mood and bipolar disorders, social anxiety, perfectionism and high-performance, phobias, challenges transitioning to adulthood, family challenges related to incarceration of a parent and divorce, personality disorders, chronic suicidal ideation and self-injuring behavior, and trauma and ritual abuse. Claire acted as Director of Operations, Senior Clinician, and Partner at an Austin-based, adherent-DBT agency prior to launching Austin Urban Sanctuary, her current endeavor.

In 2017, Claire completed basic training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), which is used to alleviate distress associated with traumatic memories. She was certified by the EMDR International Association (EMDRIA) in 2021 after completing advanced training in the use of EMDR for grief and mourning, moral injuries, and the use of EMDR for ego-state work. As an EMDRIA Consultant, Claire supports clinicians on their path toward certification by offering both group and individual consultation. Practicing at the intersection of EMDR and DBT, Claire brings a unique skill-set and perspective to clinical consultation and treatment with individuals who have experienced recurring developmental trauma. In addition, she has also completed advanced education in DBT and EMDR for Substance Use Disorders.

In 2023, Claire introduced the use of virtual reality technology to her practice, providing clients the opportunity to experience real-life scenarios and safe exposure in controlled environments adapted and customized to clients’ individual needs. Additionally, she has specialty training in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) through The Cognitive Behavior Institute. Claire understands the nuance of working at the intersection of neurodivergence and trauma and she has training in neurodivergent affirming care for Autistics, and people with ADHD and Giftedness.

Prior to pursuing a career in counseling, Claire worked in the music and technology industries, and is passionate about helping creative individuals identify personal goals and priorities, build meaningful relationships, and find healthy and fulfilling ways to express themselves.

Kacie Stokes Headshot

Kacie Stokes, LMSW

Kacie Stokes,

LMSW

therapist

Kacie Stokes is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) supervised by Ashley Porter, LCSW-S. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Statistics and Social Work from Florida State University and a Master of Science in Social Work from the University of Texas at Austin.

Kacie completed her practicum at Ascension Seton, providing DBT group therapy to adults in the Intensive Outpatient Program.  Additionally, she worked as a Research Specialist at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center promoting activity and cognitive enrichment in a schizophrenia study and at the University of Texas at Austin as a graduate research assistant for EPINET-TX (The Early Psychosis Intervention Network).

Kacie pursued continuing education through The Chicago School of Psychology in working ethically and effectively with Neurodiverse people. In addition, she completed Basic Training to provide EMDR therapy to those struggling with the after-effects of trauma, and she is currently on the path toward EMDR Certification. In 2025, Kacie completed rigorous training in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) through The Cognitive Behavior Institute, to provide evidenced-based treatment for OCD and phobias.

Kacie believes in working collaboratively to develop tools that reduce emotional intensity, restructure negative thought patterns, and reshape your responses to the world. She uses Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to work with adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders, and trauma. Her sessions are enriched with mindfulness activities, which invite you to anchor yourself in the present moment, promoting relaxation and deeper self-connection.  She facilitates adult and adolescent DBT skills groups and Autistic adult process and recreational groups.

Kacie is warm, compassionate, and curious. She brings humor and radical genuineness into her sessions, believing that authenticity and shared laughter can be powerful tools for connection and growth. She strives to create a safe and supportive space where you can embark on your journey towards healing and sustainable positive change.

Victoria Reyna Headshot

Victoria Reyna, LPC, NCC, CRC

Victoria Reyna,

LPC, NCC, CRC

therapist

Victoria Reyna is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), National Certified Counselor (NCC), and Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC). She holds a Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Services with a concentration in Addiction Studies from The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley and a Master of Science in Counseling from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center in Lubbock.

Victoria focuses on helping individuals navigate the challenges of trauma, anxiety disorders, and OCD. She has specialized training from the Cognitive Behavior Institute in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for the treatment of OCD and phobias. She treats trauma utilizing Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), with a focus on attachment based EMDR, and is currently working toward Certification.  Additionally, she uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), evidenced-based modalities used collaboratively to address and alleviate trauma. In 2024 she completed training from The Chicago School to provide neurodivergent-affirming care for Autistic teens and adults.

In sessions, Victoria prioritizes a person-centered approach. She’s to listening to your story, understanding your unique experiences, and supporting you in a way that resonates with you. She emphasizes the importance of self-compassion and will help you cultivate this crucial skill, which can be transformative on your healing journey.


Victoria’s goal is to provide a warm, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where you feel safe and understood. Healing is a deeply personal journey, and she’s honored to be part of yours. If you’re ready to begin this journey or just want to explore your options, please feel free to reach out. Victoria fosters a collaborative partnership aimed at supporting you in finding the peace and growth you deserve.

Todd Smith Headshot

Todd Smith, M.S., LCSW

Todd Smith,

M.S., LCSW

therapist

Todd Smith is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Communication Studies from St. Cloud State University and a Master of Science in Social Work from the University of Texas at Austin.

Todd conducted pre-graduate counseling in The University of Texas at Austin’s Athletic Department where he ran a support group for injured athletes, created an athlete-led program on substance abstinence and led a mindfulness group for athletes. He also practiced in the Intensive Outpatient Program at Ascension Seton for over six years, providing Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Radically-Open Dialectical Behavior Therapy (RODBT), in addition to Adult Process Group and Dual Diagnosis Group for co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders. During his time at Ascension, Todd worked with individuals presenting with mood and bipolar-spectrum disorders, personality disorders, avoidant behavior patterns, substance abuse, acute suicidal and self-injuring behavior, impulsivity issues, difficulty regulating emotions, and anxiety spectrum disorders. He also pursued continuing education through The Chicago School for working ethically and effectively with Neurodiverse people.

Todd is collaborative and grounded, while bringing his authenticity and creativity into the treatment process. He is passionate about cultivating mindfulness and awareness to help clients understand their own patterns of behavior in order to identify what they want more of in their lives and what they could use less of.

Todd’s own background in amateur athletics has contributed to him holding a strong belief in a collaborative relationship with his clients – a “team approach” – where he often uses humor to keep things fun while helping navigate life’s challenges.  Prior to pursuing a career in therapy, Todd worked in the music and comedy industries and he enjoys working with other creatives to help them achieve their goals.

Andrew Dochen, LCSW

Andrew Dochen,

LCSW

therapist

Andrew Dochen is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) supervised by Ashley Porter, LCSW-S. He is a native Austinite who brings a grounded, compassionate presence to his work with individuals navigating anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, emotion regulation issues and life transitions.

Andrew earned his Master of Science in Social Work from The University of Texas at Austin and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Art History from Washington University in St. Louis. He has clinical experience treating high-acuity behaviors through his work as a Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) intensive outpatient therapist in the adult program at Ascension Seton Behavioral Health. Additionally, he has specialized education through The Chicago School for working ethically and effectively with Neurodiverse people. Andrew excels at helping clients build practical skills for emotion regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, distress tolerance, and mindfulness.

​Prior to entering the field of mental health, he spent over a decade working in creative industries in New York, including fashion and floral design. Andrew draws on this experience to foster an imaginative, flexible, inspired, and empathic approach to therapy. He is passionate about supporting fellow creatives and members of the LGBTQ+ community.

Andrew values authenticity, collaboration, and humor in the therapeutic process and is committed to creating a space where clients feel seen, supported, and empowered to move toward meaningful change.

Vaughn Hancock Headshot

Vaughn Hancock, LPC-S

Vaughn Hancock,

LPC-S

therapist

Vaughn Hancock is dedicated to supporting clients on their therapeutic journey. Her full professional bio is coming soon.

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