About Me
Dr. Willard Ashley, Sr, NCPsyA, SCP, CGP
Dr. Willard W C Ashley is a distinguished New Jersey State Certified Psychoanalyst, accomplished Marriage and Family Therapist, and Certified Group Psychotherapist. He currently holds the esteemed position of President and CEO at Dr. Willard Ashley, Sr., LLC in Montclair. Dr. Ashley brings with him a wealth of experience, having previously served as a professor of practical theology at the New Brunswick Theological Seminary (NBTS). His historical significance is evident as the second African American to hold such a tenured position in the institution’s 230-year-plus history, and the first African-American to be appointed as Dean of the Seminary.
Author, Psychoanalyst, Consultant, and motivational speaker in New Jersey
Dr. Willard W C Ashley is a New Jersey State Certified Psychoanalyst, trained Marriage and Family Therapist, and Certified Group Psychotherapist. He is the President and CEO of Dr. Willard Ashley, Sr., LLC in Montclair. Ashley is a retired professor of practical theology from the New Brunswick Theological Seminary (NBTS). He was the second African-American in the 230 year plus history of NBTS to be granted tenure and the first African-American to be named Dean of the Seminary. Currently, Ashley is an instructor at the Rutgers University, School of Social Work, DSW Program and a trustee/faculty at the New Jersey Institute for Training in Psychoanalysis. Since 1996, Dr. Ashley has served as the founder and senior pastor of the Abundant Joy Community Church, Jersey City, New Jersey.
In addition to his role at NBTS, Dr. Ashley is an esteemed instructor at the Rutgers University School of Social Work, DSW Program, and an adjunct lecturer at the NYU, Silver School of Social Work, DSW Program. His expertise and leadership also extend to the religious community, as he has been the founder and senior pastor of the Abundant Joy Community Church in Jersey City, New Jersey, since 1996.
Dr. Ashley’s influence is not confined to the United States. He is sought after internationally as a lecturer, workshop facilitator, mental health professional, and speaker. His impact is felt globally, and he continues to be a leading figure in psychoanalysis, mental health, coaching, and spiritual care.
My mission is to inspire, educate, and empower individuals through thoughtful engagement with critical ideas, fostering personal and communal transformation. I aim to offer resources that provoke reflection and action, guiding people toward greater understanding and a more profound purpose. By integrating knowledge from various disciplines, I strive to cultivate a holistic approach to growth and well-being, sparking a sense of inspiration and hope for a brighter future.
I envision a world where individuals and communities are empowered to thrive, grounded in self-awareness and empathy for others. Through my work, I seek to foster spaces where creativity, justice, and healing can flourish, inspiring meaningful change in personal and societal contexts. I aim to contribute to a future where education and engagement lead to greater equity and collective flourishing.
I am committed to integrity, inclusivity, and lifelong learning. I recognize the inherent worth of every person and the power of collective wisdom. My work is grounded in the belief that compassion and curiosity can bridge divides and foster meaningful connections, fostering a sense of connection and empathy among individuals and communities. These values guide every decision I make, ensuring that my contributions are rooted in authenticity and respect.
I acknowledge the contributions of thinkers, mentors, and communities that have shaped my understanding and guided my journey. From ancient philosophies to contemporary innovations, my work builds on the shoulders of those who came before me. For more on the foundations of thought that inspire my approach, please look at the Wikipedia Acknowledgment.