About abby wilson, lcsw
Let’s create a life you love.
I’m a Houston-based therapist who specializes in women navigating a quarter-life crisis, including anxiety, relationships, and self-loss.
a little about me
How I became a therapist.
I was born and raised in Houston, Texas, and received my bachelor’s degree in sociology at the University of Houston. Shortly after graduating, I started a career in the oil and gas industry, which I soon discovered was not the right path for me.
During this time, I began attending therapy to process the challenges that come with early adulthood and learn how to better manage my anxiety around various life decisions. I started practicing yoga regularly and realized the significance of the mind-body connection and how mental health should be treated through a holistic approach.
After working in the oil and gas industry for a few years, I decided to pursue a new career path to become a therapist. I knew I wanted to help others, and my own process of therapy was incredibly life-changing and transformative for me.
I experienced the profound impact of vulnerability and being met with nonjudgmental compassion and acceptance. My experience as a client has given me so much insight and perspective into the power of the therapeutic relationship and helped form not only my own awareness but also my deep understanding of how important a strong connection is. It was also my own experience in therapy that led to me feeling so passionate working with young women.
I genuinely love being a therapist and am wholeheartedly in this profession because it is my passion, not just a job. I love learning about new theories and ideas that will help my clients and am dedicated to my ongoing growth personally and professionally. When I am not working, I love taking my dog on walks around the city, reading a great book, going to a pilates class, and listening to any Taylor Swift song.
How I work
A modern, humanistic approach to therapy.
My approach in therapy is relational and collaborative. I work to maintain a balance of being warm and empathetic while also challenging my clients when appropriate. My priority is to create a genuine, safe relationship so that you can show up as your authentic self and never feel judged.
As a humanistic/existential therapist, I’m not going to pathologize your problems or jump to a diagnosis—I want to understand the root cause behind your suffering and help you work towards meaningful change.
Being human means that life will inevitably present us with challenges; this does not mean there is something wrong with you or that you need to “fix” yourself. I believe we all have our own set of gifts and innate strengths, and therapy is a space that promotes growth in discovering those strengths that lie within.
We are a good fit if —
You are ready to commit to your growth.
You are looking for a down to earth, collaborative experience in therapy.
You want to discover how to live a more meaningful and authentic life.
We are not a good fit if —
You prefer a clinical and structured approach to therapy.
You are looking for a therapist who will guide the sessions and tell you what to do.
You are not interested in receiving feedback.
Therapy with me is —
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The therapeutic relationship is everything. This means I'll show up authentically so that we can build a genuine connection. My priority is for you to feel as comfortable as possible to open up and get what you need from therapy.
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I'm not going to pathologize your suffering or make assumptions about you; I want to understand you as a unique individual. This means I'll show up with curiosity, compassion, and attunement.
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I'm not going to guide the sessions or tell you what to talk about. We'll work collaboratively on whatever it is your needing support around.
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Therapy is highly individualized — not a one-size-fits-all approach. This means that therapy is whatever you need it to be, whether that be a space to freely process your feelings or to receive direct feedback.
My Background & Training
01
Education
Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work from the University of Houston.
02
Clinical Experience & Training
My clinical experience and training includes work at highly regarded organizations such as UTHealth, The Menninger Clinic, Modern Therapy, and a one year post-graduate fellowship at The Council on Recovery. My background has provided me with a comprehensive skillset in conceptualizing the role of addiction and mental health within family systems, as well as individuals who have been impacted by psychological trauma.
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Theoretical Orientations
The theoretical modalities I primarily use are Humanistic/Person-Centered, Existential-Analysis, Trauma-Informed Therapy, Attachment Theory, and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT).