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 and supporting who you are as a person.
I also 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 approach is grounded in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), both of which are evidence-based and practical. CBT helps identify how thoughts shape emotions and behaviors, while DBT offers tools for managing intense emotions, coping with stress, and improving relationships. Together, these approaches are designed to increase insight while also providing concrete skills that support lasting, real-world change.
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 of Sexual Abusers (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