Abby Sheneman, LCSW.

Get in touch

Alex Shink

July 4, 2023

Abby Sheneman, LCSW.

1. What's your practice focus and what kind of clients knock on your door ?

The heart of my practice is in trauma and grief work, I love being able to provide support for those who are navigating the painful experiences in one’s life. When I consult with someone about their therapeutic goals, I look forward to discussing their intentions and making sure we are in alignment of what they may need support around. Often, clients and I are addressing deeper wounds, in search of their authentic self, meaning making and deeper individual emotional understanding.

2. Tell us about yourself.

When I began my journey into social work counseling, I had several practicum experiences where I was able to connect with people who had losses around loved ones, autonomy, and sense of self - before, during and after diagnosis, traumatic events, or grief experiences. I was in awe of the courage, spirit, and resilience of those whom I had the fortune of supporting through their therapeutic work. These dynamic experiences still inform how I practice my craft today.

3. Tell us the story of a patient who you are most proud of helping.

I worked with someone that was grieving the loss of who they were before and after a traumatic brain injury. We spent years redeveloping their sense of self, emotional regulation, adjusting to physical and mental hurdles, redefining relationships, and processing the trauma of the events. At the end of our work, they thanked me for restoring their quality of life and self-reconnection; I reminded them that their time, energy, and effort was the catalyst that guided my support in their work.

4. What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a practitioner in private practice?

I came from a background in the criminal justice system as well as interdisciplinary team modalities in health care. One of my biggest hurdles was the multiple mechanisms that go into being a solo practitioner. School does not prepare you for the art of scheduling, insurance navigation, finance, and tech management. I was very fortunate to have supportive colleagues that helped me navigate the choppy waters of private practice.

5. What are the top 3 tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a private practice today?\

Here are my three tips:

First, if you’re like me, you joined this field because you are passionate about supporting others, so show up for yourself – you are worth your own investment!
Second, never be afraid to ask for support, we are helping professionals, no one is out here to gatekeep, it's all about accessibility and guidance.
Third, make sure you research the systems, tech, and providers you are utilizing; you want ease and accessibility.

All my best to who venture into this fulfilling path!