I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker practicing in Massachusetts for the past 3 years. I received my Master's of Social Work in 2021 from the University of Maine Orono, and since that time have been working full-time as a mental health therapist. I support adults ages 18-65+ in improving self-esteem and self-worth, reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, and finding solutions to a variety of other presenting problems and mental health diagnoses.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
In a first session, I gather basic information and demographics from the client, as well as any other relevant background, diagnoses, or symptoms they would like me to know. The first session is a collaborative process, in which I explore with the client their stated goals, what they expect out of therapy, and what has worked or not worked for them in the past. I also unpack current presenting symptoms the client is experiencing, within their comfort level, in order to create a personalized treatment plan and individualized approach for subsequent sessions.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I come from a clinical social work background of ten years, and as such I build awareness of societal issues, social injustice and community systems into my work with clients. I work from an open-minded, non-judgmental, and understanding mindset, and incorporate eclectic methods of therapy to create a tailored approach for each client.
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
I find it fulfilling and am successful working with adults ages 18-77 who present with a variety of symptoms. I tailor my approach to each individual person and appreciate working with a diverse group of clients. I appreciate a willingness to change in each client, as well as an interest in discovering new tools and perspectives that will help them reach their goals.
About Abby Elwell
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Eclectic
I believe it is important to explore different types of therapy with clients, as everyone's symptoms and presenting problem are unique to them. For the past 4 years, I have worked collaboratively with clients with a variety of diagnoses to find an approach that works best for them based on their feedback, specific needs, and stated goals.
Psychodynamic
I have been drawing from principles of psychodynamic therapy for 3 years to support clients who are diagnosed with conditions like anxiety, depression, PTSD, and trauma. Through this lens, I work with clients to explore the unconscious processes that influence behavior and identify patterns derived from childhood experiences. We work together from this basis to create greater awareness and change within patterns clients have identified as maladaptive or unhelpful.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I have been incorporating CBT in my work for 4 years, in order to support clients experiencing self-esteem issues, anxiety, and depression. This work is predicated on exploring the thought-feeling-behavior cycle, challenging negative thoughts, and identifying helpful coping strategies to improve symptoms.
Strength-Based
I believe in empowering clients to draw from their innate strength and abilities to improve their own lives, and as such have built strengths-based therapy into my work for 4 years. From a strengths-based perspective, I have supported clients with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, and relationship problems to identify their strengths, build resilience, and achieve positive growth in themselves and in their relationships with others.