Welcome — I'm Dr. Abigail Kolb
First, please call me Abby.
I hold a Ph.D. in criminology, and I am a licensed social worker (LMSW) in Georgia and New York. I received my Ph.D. at Simon Fraser University (Vancouver, BC, Canada), my Master of Science in Clinical Social Work at Columbia University (New York), and my bachelor's degree in social work, with a certificate in criminal justice, at the University of Wisconsin (Madison, Wisconsin).
With twenty years of experience, I work with adults navigating a wide range of mental health concerns, offering a space that is both supportive and focused on meaningful change. I believe that everyone deserves a safe, non-judgmental space to explore their thoughts and feelings. My approach is tailored to each individual and couple, recognizing that no two people — or experiences — are the same. Together, we work to better understand patterns that may be impacting your well-being, relationships, or daily functioning, while also building on your strengths.
I have extensive experience working with individuals involved in the justice system and those facing highly stigmatized or sensitive concerns, including problematic sexual behaviors. In this work, I provide a structured, respectful, and nonjudgmental environment where clients can explore difficult topics openly and work toward meaningful, responsible change.
My Approach
My therapeutic approach is grounded in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), two evidence-based approaches that support meaningful, lasting change. CBT helps clients understand how thoughts influence emotions and behaviors, while DBT provides practical skills for managing intense emotions, coping with stress, and improving relationships. Mindfulness is a core component of DBT and is also an evidence-based practice in its own right. I incorporate mindfulness into therapy to help clients slow down, increase awareness of their internal experiences, and respond to themselves with greater curiosity and compassion. Rather than trying to "clear the mind" or do mindfulness perfectly, the goal is to cultivate awareness without judgment. Together, these approaches promote insight, emotional balance, and practical skills that clients can use in everyday life.
Credentials & Training
Experienced in clinical, forensic, and evidence-based practice across multiple settings.
Licensure
- Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) — Georgia: MSW009716
- Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) — New York: 073989
Education
- Ph.D., Simon Fraser University (2015)
- M.S. — Clinical, Columbia University (2006)
- B.S.W., University of Wisconsin (2005)
Professional Affiliations
- American Psychology–Law Society (AP-LS)
- Association for the Treatment & Prevention of Sexual Abuse (ATSA)
- Georgia Association for the Treatment of Sexual Abusers (GATSA)
- Global Institute of Forensic Research (GIFR)
- International Association for the Treatment of Sexual Offenders (IATSO)
- National Association of Social Workers (NASW)
Published Work
I am the author of Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Sex Offenders: A Treatment Guide, published by Routledge. This clinical resource integrates DBT with cognitive behavioral approaches for treating men who have committed sexual offenses, combining current evidence-based research with practical therapeutic techniques. The guide includes skill-building exercises, worksheets, group discussion prompts, and role-play scenarios designed for clinical practice.
For a full list of publications, please see my CV.
On a Personal Note
Outside of my work, I enjoy traveling, staying active, and spending time with my husband and our four dogs. I value balance in my own life and try to practice what I encourage in others: taking care of both mind and body. I firmly believe that a happy mind and body support a happy life.
Abigail Kolb, Ph.D., LMSW