Nettle & Ash isn’t just a service. Rather, it’s a sanctuary, a movement, and a collective of people deeply committed to change.
Founded by Jenn Pohle, a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) practitioner, Nettle & Ash was created to fill a critical gap in care providing radically- affirming support for autistic and queer individuals in an environment where they don’t have to mask, explain themselves, or conform.
With locations in Providence, RI, and Somerset, MA, Nettle & Ash serves tweens, teens, and adults, offering therapeutic coaching, affirming social groups, and holistic mental health support tailored to the neurodivergent and queer experience. What truly sets them apart is their team—a dedicated group of professionals who bring their expertise, passion, and lived experience to create spaces where healing and connection can thrive.
Rooted in Community, Built on Care.
Before launching Nettle & Ash, Pohle had been working in the field since 2006, dedicating nearly two decades to behavioral health. She previously owned and operated another behavioral health business for almost a decade, gaining first-hand insight into the gaps in affirming care for autistic and queer individuals. Through this experience, she saw the need for a space where support was not just a service, but a true community. One which is built on radical acceptance, mutual aid, and autonomy.
With Autism Acceptance Month approaching in April, Nettle & Ash is proud to continue advocating for neurodiversity-affirming care—one that moves beyond outdated models and instead uplifts autistic individuals by honoring their identities, autonomy, and lived experiences.
“Acceptance means more than just awareness,” says Pohle. “It means building spaces where autistic people don’t have to fight to be understood, they are already valued.”
More Than Therapy: A Community-Rooted Approach.
At Nettle & Ash, healing happens in community, not in isolation. That’s why their approach extends beyond individual and group support. They offer outreach programs, free trainings, and inclusive events like:
- Sensory-friendly meditation
- Yoga and somatics for nervous system regulation
- Gender-affirming and identity-exploration workshops
- Neurodivergent social and support groups
Nettle & Ash groups are small, personalized, and deeply supportive. Most groups range from four to six people, with one or two staff members facilitating. Some focus on social skills and communication, while others explore gender, identity, and self-advocacy. Each group is customized to meet the needs of participants, ensuring everyone is seen and valued.
Nettle & Ash’s mission goes beyond just structured services- it’s about being an active force in the community.
A Commitment to Giving Back.
“All of the employees, including myself, are expected to work in the community each month,” Pohle explains. “Someone might be painting a room, picking up trash at a park, or assisting with local projects that require extra hands. We pride ourselves on being present, engaging, and giving back to the communities we are a part of.”
Pohle believes that community connection is vital. Not just for clients, but for the practitioners who serve them.
“Getting involved makes a huge difference. We don’t just talk about community- we actively build it,” She said.
Empowering the Next Generation of Providers.
Nettle & Ash isn’t just transforming client care: they’re mentoring the next wave of affirming professionals.
Many practitioners struggle with starting their own practices, often facing barriers around incorporation, credentialing, billing systems, and client-centered care models. Nettle & Ash provides hands-on, step-by-step mentorship for therapists, coaches, and providers looking to build sustainable, ethical, and affirming spaces of their own.⁵
“We don’t just teach theory- we walk people through every step of the process, so they can confidently create the kind of practice they wish existed,” says Pohle. “When we uplift those who care for others, we strengthen the entire ecosystem of collective healing.”
A Collective Vision for the Future.
While Nettle & Ash is rooted in Rhode Island and Massachusetts, our work extends far beyond our physical locations. They are building a movement of care, advocacy, and radical inclusion, expanding our network and partnerships to ensure that neurodivergent and queer individuals everywhere have access to affirming support.
Inclusive & Accessible Care.
In alignment with our values of equity and accessibility, Nettle & Ash accepts most insurances and offers a sliding-scale payment plan, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent individuals from receiving the care they deserve.
At its core, Nettle & Ash is not just a company. They are a collective. A space where autistic and queer people no longer have to fight for belonging because it’s already been built for them. A community where care is reciprocal, support is restorative, and healing is something we do together.
To learn more about Nettle & Ash’s programs, services, and community events, visit www.nettleandash.com or contact info@nettleandash.com.
