
Abigail Brien
M.A. | Psy.D Psychology Doctoral Practicum Student
My Approach
Abby’s therapy style is integrative and tailored to each patient’s needs, drawing from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), systems theory, and person-centered approaches. Her goal is to provide a safe space where individuals feel supported and comforted as they pursue their personal goals. She aims to build a therapeutic relationship that fosters a sense of safety, encourages exploration of different perspectives, and deepens insight into one’s own emotions. With a blend of empathy and a sense of humor, she supports patients on their journey toward self-discovery and cognitive change. Another of Abby’s goals is to help patients question and re-evaluate their thoughts and behaviors. She works collaboratively with you every step of the way to identify which thoughts are serving you and which are not; and how to reframe or shift those perspectives. Her use of CBT is complemented by a humanistic approach, emphasizing deep empathy, exploratory questioning, and reflection on emotions and meaningful life events.
Ages Treated | Toddlers, Children, Preteens, Teens, Young Adults, Adults
About Abigail Brien
My Experience
Abby has been passionate about understanding and supporting others from a young age. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from Louisiana State University, where her dedication to mental health care deepened. Abby is in pursuit of her PsyD in Clinical Psychology at The Chicago School (TCS) and recently received her master’s degree in clinical psychology from TCS. Her experience spans various clinical and research environments, including research laboratories, hospital settings, and a neurobehavioral care center. Abby has worked with diverse populations across the lifespan, supporting individuals navigating life transitions, trauma, ADHD, OCD, and more. She has spent particular time growing her knowledge in treating mood disorders such as anxiety and depression, as well as addressing chronic health conditions, gut-related anxiety, and developing coping strategies and stress management techniques. Her work encompasses care for individuals ranging from young children to older adults. Abby is well-versed in interdisciplinary collaboration and has worked closely with professionals including teachers, psychiatrists, speech-language pathologists, and social workers to create holistic and individualized care plans. Abby’s ultimate goal is to provide compassionate, personalized, and evidence-based treatment that empowers each individual to thrive and achieve meaningful personal growth.
Education
Louisiana State University
B.S. Psychology, Minor: Sociology
The Chicago School
MS Clinical Psychology
The Chicago School
Psy.D Clinical Psychology (Current Candidate)
Gender
She/Her
Treatment Modalities
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
- Brief Solution Focused
- Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT)
- Emotionally Focused Therapy
- Humanistic Therapy
- Integrative Therapy
- Mindfulness
- Motivational Interviewing
- Person-Centered Therapy
- Play Therapy
- Positive Psychology
- Psychodynamic Therapy
- Solution Focused Behavioral Therapy (SFBT)
- Systems Psychology