to fill someone with the urge or ability to do or feel something, especially something creative, positive, or meaningful.
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From Latin inspirare = “to breathe into”
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Originally meant to infuse life, spirit, or energy
Inspire
Hi! I’m Abigail, but everyone calls me Abi (yes, pronounced “Abby,” and yes, I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve had to correct that).
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I’m a psychotherapist, yoga teacher, and all things hippi-dippy leader dedicated to helping people connect with themselves.
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Yoga has been a huge part of my life both professionally and personally. I have been teaching for over a decade and hold Yoga Teacher Training certifaites from Jivamukti (300YTT) and Kripalu Schools of Yoga (200+300YTT), specializing in a combination of vinyasa and hatha practices. I lead both Ecstatic Dance and Ecstatic Breathwork. I’ve taught in studios, community programs, and mental health clinics, and I love helping people discover their own unique relationship with movement, mindfulness, and healing.
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I’m the founder of Survive & Thrive Psychotherapy LLC in Burlington, Vermont, where I blend traditional therapy and alternative approaches in an effort to honor the mind, body, and spirit. I also work at River Rock Treatment with individuals, couples, and groups. I’ve worked in partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient settings, residential clinics, supporting folks with eating disorders, addiction recovery, and mental health stabilization. Before my master’s, I worked with adolescents in crisis through , individuals experiencing homelessness , and in hospital emergency settings.
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My clinical focus is eating disorders/disorder eating, substance use, and trauma but I work with all aspects of this messy, complicated human life. I prioritize cultivating safety, understanding, and empowerment—and maybe a little humor when it’s needed.
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I’m passionate about creating spaces—both in therapy and in yoga—where people can explore themselves fully, laugh, reflect, and sometimes cry. My goal is to integrate the science of mental health with the wisdom of the body to help people move from being in autopilot to being inspired .
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Outside of all things hippy-dippy and psychology-related, I’m an avid outdoor enthusiast. I’ve held a Wilderness EMT certification and spend as much time as possible outside—annually hiking the Pemi, weekly touring, mountain biking, gravel riding, and generally doing anything that lets me sweat and smile. While I don’t currently offer outdoor adventuring as part of my work, stay posted—I hope to integrate it in the future.
I don’t believe healing, self-discovery, or a meaningful life happens without inspiration. Inspiration isn't something you force or talk yourself into—rather, it stirs something deeper. Something that reaches beyond the mind and body and touches the soul.
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I hope to create spaces where you can let go of what you think you should be doing. Where you don’t have to depend on motivation or striving. Instead, you find moments where you feel more like yourself again.
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If you’ve ever caught yourself thinking, “Yes… that. That feeling—that’s what I want more of,” then you already know. It’s not easy to explain. You might struggle to put words to it, but you recognize it when you feel it.
And sweetheart, I know exactly what you’re talking about. That feeling—the quiet clarity, the sense of coming home to yourself—is what I’ve devoted my life to nurturing.
Clinical Training & Experience
Education
2023
Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a Specialization in Trauma Studies
Lesley University, Cambridge, Massachusetts
2016
Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology & Biology
St. Lawrence University, Canton, NY
2026
Trauma Symposium with Arielle Schwartz
Sivananda, BS
2025
Peter Levine's Trauma Master Class: See Somatic Experiencing® in action with deep-rooted trauma, attachment wounds, and chronic pain
PESI
2025
Drs. John and Julie Gottman on the 10 Core Principles for Effective Couples Therapy
PESI
2024 - Present
2024 - Present
River Rock Treatment Center
Burlington, Vermont
Psychotherapist
Abigail works as a psychotherapist at an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) addiction treatment center providing essential support to individuals struggling with substance use disorders. Her role includes conducting individual therapy sessions to explore personal challenges, coping strategies, and recovery goals. In addition to one-on-one work, she facilitates group therapy sessions, fostering a safe environment for clients to share experiences, learn from one another, and develop interpersonal skills. Abigail employs various therapeutic techniques to promote healing and resilience, helping clients navigate their recovery journey effectively. She works closely in collaboration with a multidisciplinary team to ensure comprehensive care tailored to each client's needs.
River Rock Treatment Center website: Click Here
Survive & Thrive Psychotherapy LLC
Burlington, Vermont
Owner & Founder
Abigail is the owner and founder of Survive and Thrive Psychotherapy LLC , where she is dedicated to helping individuals navigate their mental health challenges. Under her leadership, the practice emphasizes the use of alternative therapy modalities, offering a holistic approach to healing. Abigail works closely with clients in both individual and group settings, creating personalized treatment plans that incorporate innovative techniques alongside traditional therapies. Her commitment to fostering resilience and growth empowers clients to thrive in their mental wellness journey.​
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2023-2024
Kahm Center for Eating Disorders​
Burlington, Vermont
Primary Psychotherapist
As a primary psychotherapist at a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) for eating disorders, Abigail's roles and responsibilities were multifaceted. She conducted individual therapy sessions to help clients explore the psychological aspects of their eating disorders, fostering insight and promoting healthier coping strategies. Abigail also facilitated group therapy sessions, creating a safe and supportive environment for clients to share experiences and connect with peers.
In addition to direct client work, she was responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive treatment curriculum that integrated evidence-based practices tailored to the specific needs of clients. This curriculum addressed various aspects of recovery, including emotional regulation, self-esteem, and body image. Collaborating closely with a multidisciplinary team, Abigail ensured a holistic approach to treatment, guiding clients on their path to recovery with compassion and expertise.
Kahm Center for Eating Disorders website: Click Here
2022 - 2023
Wellesley College Counseling Center — The Stone Center
Wellesley, Massachusetts
Clinical Practicum
As an intern at the Wellesley College Counseling Center – The Stone Center, Abigail gained valuable experience in providing one-on-one therapy to students facing various mental health challenges. During her internship, she engaged deeply with Relational Cultural Theory, learning directly from its founder, Jean Baker Miller. This foundational experience enriched Abigail's understanding of the importance of relationships and cultural context in psychological healing. She utilized these insights to foster a supportive therapeutic environment, helping clients build connections and navigate their personal growth.
Wellesley College – The Stone Center Webpage: Click here
2021 - 2022
Cambridge Eating Disorder Center
Cambridge, Massachusetts
Clinical Practicum
As an intern at The Cambridge Eating Disorder Center, Abigail played an integral role in supporting clients on their recovery journeys. She conducted individual therapy sessions, helping clients explore the underlying issues related to their eating disorders and develop healthier coping strategies. In addition to her one-on-one work, Abigail facilitated therapy groups, creating a supportive space for clients to share their experiences, learn from one another, and build a sense of community. This hands-on experience deepened her understanding of the complexities of eating disorders and strengthened her skills in both individual and group therapy settings.
Cambridge Eating Disorder Center webpage: click here
Additional Clinical Experience
Mental Health Work prior to pursuing Masters degree
Burlington, Vermont
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Northeastern Family Institute (NFI)
Residential counselor
Abigail was responsible for providing support to adolescents coping with severe trauma and emotional disturbances. Abigail worked to foster a safe environment, implement therapeutic strategies to promote healing and emotional regulation. By collaborating with a multidisciplinary team, She helped empower clients to develop coping skills and resilience on their path to recovery.
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Champlain Valley Office of Economic Opportunity (CVOEO)
Case manger
Abigail played a crucial role in supporting individuals experiencing homelessness during the pandemic by coordinating access to temporary housing and essential services. She provided advocacy for housing solutions and connect clients to resources. She facilitated programming that addressed physical, social, emotional, and mental health needs, helping clients navigate their path to stability and self-sufficiency.
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University of Vermont Medical Center, Emergency Department
Emergency Mental Health Technician
As an Emergency Mental Health Technician Abigail created a stabilizing environment for clients in crisis. Abigail ensured patient safety through suicide watch, monitoring individuals at risk and maintaining safety.
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Holistic Training, Certifications & Experience
2017 - Present
Immersive Practice
​Sivananda Ashram, Paradise Island, BS
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2012 - Present
Immersive Practice
Wonderwell Mountain Refuge, Spring Field, NH​
2018
2014-2018
2018
2018
2018
2018
300YTT Hour Yoga Teacher Training ,
Jivamukti School of Yoga
200+300YTT Yoga Teacher Training
Kripalu School of Yoga, Stockbridge, MA
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Leading Vinyasa, 10-day module towards 300-level YTT A
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Guiding Meditation for Yoga, 10-day module towards 300-level YTT ​
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15 Hour Hands on Assisting Training
Sangha Studio, Burlington, VT
Yoga Teacher Enhancement Program
Laughing River Yoga, Burlington, VT
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Restorative Yoga Teacher Training I
Sukha Studio, Burlington, VT
Restorative Yoga Teacher Training II
Sukha Studio, Burlington, VT