Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker from California who has been practicing for 16 years. I received my BA in Psychology from UC Davis and my Master of Social Work from San Diego State University. I treat adults with a variety of issues including: depression, anxiety, trauma, grief & loss, life transitions & changes, and stress. I am also trained in providing psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy and can provide therapy that focuses on processing and integrating those experience for long-lasting healing.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
In our first session I will get to hear about the specific challenges you are facing and your goals for your future. We can discuss what we hope to work on together and how we plan on getting there.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
I believe the most important aspect of therapy is the therapeutic alliance between myself and the clients I see. I am a warm, non-judgmental, empathetic person who is committed to meeting you where you are and helping you on your healing journey. I don't believe in a "one-size fits all" approach to therapy so I tailor the treatment approach to the specific client. Some clients prefer process-oriented therapy while others prefer skill acquisition. I also utilize an array of treatment modalities such as CBT, DBT, ACT, IFS, and Mindfulness which allows me to best meet the needs of each individual client.
About Kristi Abbott
Appointments
Virtual
My treatment methods
Internal Family Systems (IFS)
Internal Family Systems (IFS) identifies and addresses multiple sub-personalities (or parts) within each person’s mental system. These sub-personalities consist of wounded parts and painful emotions such as anger and shame, and parts that try to control and protect the person from the pain of the wounded parts.
IFS focuses on healing the wounded parts and restoring mental balance and harmony by changing the dynamics that create discord among the sub-personalities and the Self. I utilize IFS to help clients recognize the different parts of themselves and how to work with those parts to overcome the difficulties in their lives.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on modifying dysfunctional emotions, behaviors, and thoughts by changing negative or irrational beliefs. I utilize CBT to help clients recognize how our thoughts, emotions, and behavior are all connected and how we improve our lives by learning new ways of thinking.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) has a strong educational component designed to provide skills for managing intense emotions and negotiating social relationships. The “dialectic” in dialectical behavior therapy is an acknowledgment that real life is complex and healing is not linear. I utilize DBT to help clients learn better ways to regulate their emotions.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
I incorporate aspects of mindfulness into my therapy sessions to help clients manage staying present. We are often thinking of either the past or the future which can bring on feelings of depression or anxiety. Learning to stay present and in tune with our bodies and environment can help us overcome challenges.
Supportive
Supportive therapy primarily focuses on providing emotional support, encouragement, and validation during difficult life circumstances or psychological challenges. I believe this is an integral piece of all therapy, so while I utilize this treatment modality on its own, I also weave it into therapy when using other modalities as well.
