Abbe Newman, LPC

Psychotherapy for Adult Individuals and Couples

“You are imperfect, you are wired for struggle, but you are worthy of love and belonging.” -Brene Brown

About

  • Silvana means “of the forest”, where life is often colorful, abundant and thriving, much like our own. This space has been created with people in mind. The goal is to help others gain insight, confidence and clarity in their lives and relationships by providing a safe and healing environment. We can gain a different perspective when we are able to examine and heal our relationship with ourself and others. Through our relationships, we can transform.

  • Hi! I’m Abbe, a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Michigan.

    My purpose as a therapist is to assist in the complex journey of healing, growth, and empowerment. Empathy, compassion and connection are at the root of my work. I aim to help you feel truly seen and heard during our time together, and am grateful for the opportunity to work closely with those who aim for a deeper understanding of self so that they are able to more authentically show up in their lives and relationships. I strive to provide a safe and supportive environment where humans are able to explore all aspects of themselves and their lives.

    I understand how daunting therapy can be for some and utilize humor in my practice to make the process a little bit easier and more enjoyable. I believe we heal through our relationships with others, which is why the therapeutic relationship can be so transformative. My commitment is to support you and walk beside you every step of the way on your journey to empowerment and healing.

    I mostly enjoy working with individuals and couples coping with issues such as childhood trauma, attachment, issues of identity and relationship issues.

    I am aware that therapy happens within a social and cultural context and believe it’s important to leave space to discuss issues related to oppression, intersectionality and privilege. I work from emotionally-focused, internal family systems, person-centered, trauma-informed, relational and feminist perspectives. I believe that looking at things from a holistic perspective is important.

    I enjoy inviting those who might not be comfortable in all treatment spaces such as gender non-conforming folx, members of the LGBTQIA2S+ communities, those who wish to learn about body neutrality and health at every size (HAES) and other marginalized groups.

    Outside of work you can find me learning a new craft, planting things indoors or out, listening to true crime, taking naps, hanging with my dogs or watching Schitt’s Creek for the 1000 time. I received my Bachelor’s in Spanish from the University of Central Florida and my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Roosevelt University in Chicago. Silvana is also an acronym for some of my very favorite family members, so it has a special place in my heart, just like they do.

Services

  • Depression and anxiety

    Trauma

    Shame

    Impact of oppression and marginalization

    Relationship issues

    Wounds of childhood/Family of origin issues

    Attachment issues

    Parenting

    Stress management/reduction

    Conflict resolution

    Work & career issues

    Sexual health

    Grief & loss

  • HAES - Health at Every Size

    Intuitive eating

    Deconstructing societal norms and beliefs

    Disordered eating

    Understanding root causes

    Feelings of shame around body appearance, size or shape

  • Gender identity

    Exploration of gender identity & expression

    Gender dysphoria

    Gender-expansive

    Gender non-conforming

  • Intimacy

    Communication

    Separation & divorce

    Affairs & infidelity

    Non-traditional relationships

    Parenting

    Deconstructing gender roles

    Sexual orientation & identity issues

    Relationship orientation concerns

    Pleasure enrichment

Resources

Contact

Feel free to reach out with any questions about starting therapy