About Us

Ashley’s passion for service is deeply rooted in her experiences growing up in the foster care system. Today, she is a sought-after keynote speaker, New York Times bestselling author, and advocate dedicated to mental health. As a licensed clinical social worker and the founder of Sustainable Family Services, Ashley holds a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California. She is a clinical supervisor and a board-certified tele-mental health professional (BC-TMH), and she also possesses several certifications, including Certified Clinical Trauma Professional Level 2 (CCTP-II), Certified Child and Adolescent Trauma Professional (CATP), and Certified Family Trauma Professional (CFTP). Additionally, Ashley is a certified FirstPlay Infant Mental Health Practitioner and a registered behavior technician (RBT). 

When not in her office, Ashley travels the globe as an award-winning keynote speaker, sharing her expertise at various conferences and organizations. She is also the international bestselling author of the memoirs, "Three Little Words" and "Three More Words." Ashley is dedicated to empowering individuals and families to succeed, regardless of their circumstances or past traumas. She believes it is essential for families and individuals to access the support, skills, tools, and education needed to thrive. 

Her insights and experiences have been featured on major platforms like CNN, Good Morning America with Diane Sawyer, The Today Show, the New York Times, USA Today, Tampa Bay Times, GLAMOUR Magazine, Women’s World Magazine, and many other news and television outlets. For more information, please visit www.Rhodes-Courter.com.

For nearly 20 years, Brandice has dedicated her career to working with children facing intensive behavioral issues, those from high-conflict families, and youth who have endured extreme childhood trauma. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, she earned her Masters of Social Work Degree and Certification in Play Therapy from the University of South Florida. Brandice’s experience spans various settings, including outpatient, in-home, residential, and medical environments. She is a staunch advocate for individualized care and believes it is essential to provide both children and parents with the support they need to enhance family dynamics and strengthen individual relationships, ultimately fostering a healthy and nurturing home environment. Moreover, Brandice has significant experience in providing affirming care to the LGBTQIAP2+ community. She understands that everyone is doing their best under their unique circumstances and is here to assist you, your child, and/or your family in recognizing personal needs while learning to communicate healthy expectations and boundaries in relationships. Brandice gets that each person’s needs and experiences are distinct, requiring a tailored approach.

Alex is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a graduate of the University of South Florida (USF). She completed her Bachelors in Psychology and Criminology, and her Masters in Social Work and Public Health from USF. With significant experience working with individuals, families, and couples, Alex specializes in trauma-focused and narrative modalities, grief counseling, and crafting personalized approaches to meet clients where they are. Her extensive work with the LGBTQIAP2+ community highlights her commitment to advocating for affirming and inclusive spaces. Alex believes that a person-centered and empowering approach is crucial for strengthening individuals and families. Additionally, she is a Certified FirstPlay Infant Mental Health Practitioner.

Ayla Terrusa is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who graduated from the University of South Florida with a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling and holds a certification in Marriage and Family Therapy. Ayla specializes in Animal-Assisted Therapy and has a particular passion for helping children by utilizing play-based interventions alongside animals. She is dedicated to supporting children, individuals, families, and couples, with a strong focus on those in the LGBTQIAP+ community.

Hillary Coggins, MSW, BCBA, LBA is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and Licensed Behavior Analyst who combines her expertise in social work and applied behavior analysis. She is passionate about helping children, adolescents, and families develop meaningful communication skills, independence, and social relationships to enhance their overall quality of life. Drawing from her dual background, Hillary adopts a collaborative, family-centered approach to care, emphasizing the importance of working closely with caregivers and other professionals to create personalized, practical supports that seamlessly integrate into everyday life. Her goal is to foster meaningful progress for families while ensuring a balance that is both effective and sustainable. Outside of her professional endeavors, Hillary enjoys spending quality time with her family, exploring new destinations, and creating lasting memories through adventurous experiences.

Emily is a Registered Clinical Social Work Intern and a proud graduate of the University of South Florida. She earned her Master’s Degree in Social Work and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. With a deep passion for working with children, families, and the LGBTQIAP2+ community, Emily adopts strengths- and play-based approaches in her interventions, fostering safe and supportive therapeutic environments. Striving to empower her clients, she employs a person-centered approach and often incorporates animal-assisted techniques for hands-on learning during sessions. Before joining Sustainable Families, Emily gained valuable experience working with at-risk youth and adults in court-ordered treatment programs. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, attending concerts, visiting Disney, engaging in crafts, and caring for her three cats and five guinea pigs.

Taylor is a dedicated Registered Behavior Technician with a passion for helping children grow, learn, and thrive. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, specializing in Cognitive Neuroscience, from Florida Gulf Coast University. Bringing over five years of healthcare experience, she has worked with both children and complex adults. Taylor is motivated to create a lasting impact in the lives of families, ensuring that each child feels valued, seen, encouraged, understood, and safe. As a fierce Human Rights advocate, she has provided support both domestically and internationally as a voice for the underserved. Don't be surprised to find Ms. Taylor enjoying time on a boat or exploring underwater in her scuba gear!

Erick brings both professional expertise and personal experience to his role as a Registered Behavior Technician and counselor. As a former Guardian ad Litem Volunteer and foster parent to over 20 children, as well as a dedicated father of three children with unique needs, Erick understands the joys and challenges that families of all backgrounds face. He is passionate about facilitating child development through active, play-based interventions and loves incorporating nature, music, history, and sports into his work with kids and teens. Recognizing the therapeutic benefits of the outdoors, you will often find Mr. Erick in the office gardens leading engaging ecotherapy sessions.