Ashley Bentzel, EdD, LCPC, NCC, APC

Ashley Bentzel, EdD, LCPC, NCC, APC, is a Core Faculty Assistant Professor and MTC Co-Director of Low-Residency Student Success at Naropa University. She is a dedicated educator, researcher, and practitioner passionate about contemplative pedagogy, holistic counselor development, and the ethical integration of emerging therapeutic modalities and technologies.

Dr. Bentzel holds a Doctorate in Education (EdD) in Counselor Education and Supervision from Shippensburg University and a Master of Arts in School Counseling from Loyola University Maryland. She is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC), and an Approved Professional Counselor (APC).

Her scholarly and clinical focus centers on the ethical application of psychedelic-assisted therapy and artificial intelligence in counseling. Grounded in transpersonal psychology, mindfulness, and social justice, her work emphasizes contemplative practices as vital tools for deepening self-awareness and personal liberation. In her private practice, she specializes in supporting emerging adults through life transitions, identity exploration, and integrative mental health care.

Her clinical background spans work as a Mental Health Therapist providing individual psychotherapy, assessment, and treatment planning, as well as experience as a School Counselor focused on emotional wellness, restorative practices, and career readiness. Her research and professional presentations examine counselor-in-training development, supervisory dynamics, and the integration of psychedelic-assisted modalities into clinical education.

In her teaching and administrative leadership, Dr. Bentzel fosters a collaborative, student-centered environment that balances strong support with intentional challenge. She encourages counselors-in-training to lean into their “growing edge,” equipping them to navigate the complexities of the counseling profession with deep self-reflection, clinical competence, and compassion.