Find A Psychologist in Pasadena, CA.

To strengthen my role as the Executive Director of the La Vie Counseling Center I received advanced training in psychodynamic psychotherapy from the Southern California Psychoanalytic Institute because of my interest in getting to the roots of the problems that drive people to therapy. I have studied and practiced an in-depth approach to psychotherapy for over 20 years and have written books that have sold over a million copies and been translated into several languages. My desire is to not only help people feel better, but help them get better and live that way daily. I love going to work each day, because helping people live healthier lives makes me a better person in the process.

Abby offers tailored therapy for managing anxiety and stress, combining trauma-informed care with evidence-based techniques like CBT and mindfulness. She helps clients identify triggers, challenge unhelpful thought patterns, and develop effective coping strategies to reduce overwhelm. Abby’s supportive approach fosters emotional regulation, resilience, and greater calm, empowering individuals to navigate daily challenges with confidence and regain balance in their lives.

I am a Professional Psychologist specializing in the treatment of trauma, depression, grief, and adjustment, as well as Psychological Testing and Assessment, amongst others. My approach is Psychodynamically/Psychoanalytical oriented, with the expansion into other areas, such as ACT, CBT, art therapy, where needed and appropriate. In a safe and non - judgmental environment, we explore the underlying root or roots of your problems and seek out new directions.

There are many different types of therapists out there, with a variety of specialties, levels and types of training and experience. Trying to understand these differences and finding the type of therapist that is right for you can be confusing and sometimes frustrating. A Psychologist is a mental health professional who has an earned Doctoral Degree and passed the most rigorous professional training and licensing requirements in the field. These professionals most typically focus their practice on talk or behavioral therapies and have the widest variety of and deepest understanding of and training in therapeutic techniques. Psychologists are capable of working with the widest variety of issues including the most complex and challenging types of mental health issues.