Clinical Psychologist
In Network: Aetna
Welcome! I am Dr. Abigail Elakman (she/her), a licensed clinical psychologist. I provide individual, group, and couples therapy to adults 18 and over. My broad and varied clinical experience has led me to be well-equipped to address a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, other mood disorders, relationships, stress, trauma, identity, and sexuality.
Throughout therapy, I hold thoughtful consideration for your unique life experiences and your intersecting identities. My approach is sex-positive, LGBTQ+ affirming, and anti-racist. I strive to incorporate ideas about identity development and the influence of political and social forces to bring greater depth and significance to your self-exploration in therapy.
I use an integrative therapeutic approach to help individuals develop insight, feel more resilient, and discover meaning and purpose. My work with clients often focuses on relationships – your relationship with others, yourself, and the therapeutic relationship itself. My approach also incorporates skill-building techniques derived from dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) and mindfulness-based techniques derived from acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). I strive to be sensitive to and flexible about your information-processing and learning style needs.
My approach is rooted in the belief that insight into our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors can help us strengthen our sense of self and thus engage with the world more genuinely and authentically. I believe that every person has the potential to discover their sense of purpose and that recognizing and embracing it can bring relief from some of our suffering.
I hold a doctorate from Xavier University and completed my internship at the Miami VA. I then pursued a specialized postdoctoral fellowship in LGBTQ+ Interprofessional Care at the Bedford VA near Boston. During this time, I focused on providing affirming care to gender-diverse individuals and those who identify as LGBTQ+. Through both education and lived experiences, I have developed a deep understanding of the challenges faced by individuals within this community. Whether you seek support navigating the healthcare system to obtain gender-affirming care, struggle with guilt and shame, want to explore your identity in a safe and validating space, or need support navigating intimacy and relationships, I have a tailored skillset to provide compassionate care, you deserve.
I also want to express that I am here to help no matter your sexual orientation and am equally available to folks who identify as straight or who are seeking care unrelated to identity. My ambition is to support you in achieving your therapy goals. If you feel we may be a good fit, I encourage you to take the next step and reach out - I am here for you!
“Between stimulus and response, there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom.” – Viktor E. Frankl