Everyone needs help sorting through their thoughts and emotions at various points in their lives. During our formative years, we all learn a mix of effective and non-effective ways of coping with difficult emotions. It takes time to understand how these years shaped our view of ourselves as well as our relationship to others. I hope to help you understand yourself in a deeper way so that you can act in accordance with your personal values. In couple and family therapy, I will help you all develop communication skills that fit your unique personalities.

I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches including Family Systems Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Emotion Focused Therapy. For those who welcome it, I enjoy talking about where God is in your healing journey.

The presence of therapists in my own life has been a formative part of my own healing and walk with Jesus Christ. I hope to provide that same safe space for you as you sort through difficult circumstances. Romans 8:28 has given me comfort when I have felt hopeless and without direction. It states, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” I would be honored to walk alongside you as you gain deeper insight into who God created you to be.

Experience

Prior to working at Christian Heart Counseling, Abby worked at The Emily Program for three years as well as other residential treatment centers in California, treating persons struggling with eating disorders, depression, anxiety, self-injurious behaviors and substance abuse.

Education

Abby has her Masters of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy from Bethel Seminary (St. Paul, MN) as well as her Bachelor of Arts from Westmont College (Santa Barbara, CA). Abby was also trained in the SOZO, prayer-based approach to inner healing while attending Bethel Church (Redding, CA) which can be incorporated if requested.

Certifications

Abby is a trained Prepare and Enrich instructor and has a special interest in pre-marital and marital therapy.