Meet Ashley Martinez LPC, CPCS | Founder of BrainPower Hour, LLC

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashley Martinez LPC, CPCS and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ashley, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
Work-life balance has evolved into something much more intentional for me over the years. Early in my career, especially while building my therapy practice, I felt a constant pull to be available, responsive, and driven around the clock. I was working ten hour days! Like many entrepreneurs, I equated success with sacrifice—and often, that sacrifice came at the expense of personal time and connection.

With time, experience, and a few hard lessons in burnout, I began to redefine what balance really means. I stopped chasing a perfect split between work and life and started creating a life that reflected my priorities. I learned the difference between what is “urgent” and what is “important.” Travel became one of my greatest teachers—stepping away from my usual routine and immersing myself in new places reminded me to slow down, reflect, and return reenergized. Fitness is another core value. Movement keeps me grounded, focused, and better equipped to hold space for others in my work. And most importantly, family is my compass. They remind me of who I am outside of my professional identity.

Now, I view balance as a practice, not a destination. It’s not about doing everything at once—it’s about aligning my time, energy, and choices with what matters most. That mindset has changed the way I approach my schedule, my priorities, and how I define success—not just in my career, but in my life.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
At BrainPower Hour, we’re passionate about creating a space where mental health care reflects the rich cultural diversity of the communities we serve. What sets us apart is our intentional focus on serving clients from a wide range of backgrounds and identities, with culturally responsive care at the heart of everything we do. We understand that healing isn’t one-size-fits-all, and we’re proud to meet people where they are, through both traditional therapy and innovative approaches to wellness.

Getting here wasn’t easy. I started my career working in acute care settings—in jails, hospitals, psychiatric units, and crisis teams—often meeting clients in their most vulnerable and intense moments. That foundation was challenging but deeply formative. It gave me a level of clinical confidence, resilience, and perspective that made stepping into private practice less intimidating. Today, I’m able to support clients navigating high-stress periods without becoming overwhelmed myself, and I bring that calm, focused presence into every session.

Biggest lesson learned; make time for yourself, this is an industry where people will ALWAYS need you, they literally pay for your time, so prioritize your self care and what’s important to you. Also, the goal is not to “fix” people, it is to hold safe space as people heal themselves.

I’m especially excited about the road ahead: as we grow, BrainPower Hour is expanding our services nationwide to include offerings like medication reviews, holistic care, and both conventional and non-traditional wellness practices. Our goal is to redefine what accessible, inclusive, whole-person care looks like—and to make that vision available across Georgia and then, the country!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend was visiting Atlanta for a week, I’d be so excited to show them the soul, and energy that make this city so special.

We’d start the week with brunch and get some good soul food at at Breakfast at Barney’s. After that, we’d head to Ponce City Market. It’s one of my favorite spots for shopping, rooftop views, and bites from all over. We’d walk the BeltLine from there and maybe rent scooters or bikes, stopping along the way to admire murals and grab popsicles from King of Pops.

One night, we’d definitely dress up and head to The Fox Theatre to see a live show. Afterward, we’d sneak into Red Phone Booth, one of my favorite speakeasies in the city for a classy vibe and good drinks.

Throughout the week, I’d make sure we hit a local festival—whether it’s Atlanta Dogwood Festival, Afropunk, or One MusicFest, depending on the time of year. There’s always something going on here, and the festival culture is part of what makes Atlanta so alive.

For more lowkey moments, we’d spend an afternoon at Piedmont Park, grab lunch from a food truck, and maybe take a walk through the Atlanta Botanical Garden. The High Museum is fun too! Every night would end with something delicious—I love Twisted Soul Cookhouse, South City Kitchen, or late-night tacos in Midtown.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to dedicate my shoutout to my family, as they are the heart of everything I do. My mother is the reason I have a business mindset. Her work ethic, creativity, and unwavering belief in me laid the foundation for the entrepreneur I’ve become. She’s been my biggest supporter since day one, always encouraging me to dream bigger and move with intention.

My father is my quiet anchor. He’s the one who reminds me to stay grounded, always offering encouragement and perspective when I need it most. My siblings keep me motivated as they celebrate my wins, hold me accountable, and remind me that I’m never in this alone. My siblings allow me to land in safe spaces without judgment and I love them for that.

I’m also incredibly thankful for my two best friends, who hold up the mirror. They tell me when I need to pivot, when I need to pause, and when I need to check in with myself. Their insights have helped me evolve as a woman and a business owner. They understand what clinical work looks like and can relate.

I can’t forget Freud, my dog and emotional support MVP. His presence brings joy and calm on even the most chaotic days—he keeps me connected to the present and reminds me to pause for play.

And last but certainly not least, my soon-to-be husband, Hunter. His love, partnership, and patience are everything. He believes in me even on the days I forget to believe in myself, and his support has made the biggest difference in both my personal growth and my professional journey.

This village is my why, my how, and my safe place. I would not be here without them.

Website: https://www.bphour.com

Instagram: @brainpowerhour

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/ ashley-m-martinez-23b3086b

Facebook: BrainPower Hour

Other: Email: contactbphour@gmail.com
Phone: 678-379-9553