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Colleen Abbott, MA, JD, EMDR
Psychotherapist
Welcome to Brave Space Psychotherapy! I’m Colleen Abbott. My work is rooted in compassion, curiosity, and a deep belief in the transformative power of love and connection. Drawing from my diverse professional journey, academic achievements, and life experiences, I strive to create a supportive space where healing and growth are possible.
My Approach To Therapy
I take a deeply relational and trauma-informed approach to therapy, rooted in psychodynamic principles and informed by interpersonal neurobiology. My work integrates elements of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and parts work, creating a flexible and client-centered framework. As an EMDR-certified therapist, I use this evidence-based technique to help clients process and heal from trauma. This integrative approach allows me to adapt to each client’s unique needs, fostering insight, resilience, and growth in a safe and compassionate environment.
My Life Experience and Commitment to You
My work is deeply rooted in my belief that love and connection are antidotes to trauma and grief. I am passionate about supporting individuals who are dealing with traumatic grief and the emotional impact of life-changing medical diagnoses, whether the diagnosis affects them personally or their loved ones. With intention and care, I help my clients not only endure these hardships but find ways to thrive through them.
As a therapist, I am committed to providing a brave space for healing—one that is compassionate, non-judgmental, and grounded in deep empathy. Whether you're navigating grief, trauma, or a major life transition, I’m here to support you on your journey toward healing, growth, and wholeness.
Before becoming a psychotherapist, I spent 25 years as a professional, including a successful career as an attorney. During this time, I also worked as a life coach and advocate, helping individuals navigate challenges and achieve their goals. These roles deepened my understanding of resilience and the human capacity for growth.
On a personal level, my life as a wife and mother has profoundly influenced my perspective on relationships, love, and the challenges of balancing life’s demands. Additionally, being a child of a mother who lived with a disability and the mother of children with medical complexities has given me unique insight into the challenges and profound growth that can come from navigating these experiences.
My Education and Training
Education
Northwestern University - The Family Institute
Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MA), 2024Loyola University Chicago School of Law
Juris Doctor (JD), 2001Miami University
Bachelor of Arts in English Literature and History, 1998
John E. Dolibois European Center, Luxembourg, 1996Mindfulness Coaching School
Completion Certificate, October 2016
Training
EMDR Basic Training (Thrive Learning, December 2023)
Internal Family Systems Online Circle (IFS Institute, October 2023 – March 2024)
The Mindsight Approach to Well-Being (Dr. Dan Siegel, January – June 2024)
Supervision
I am supervised by Jessica Anderson-Gonzalez, LCSW, of Authentic Counseling & Therapy, PLLC, ensuring that my practice remains aligned with the highest professional and ethical standards.
