Abigael Goins, MS-CMHC
Associate Counselor under supervision
ME AS A PERSON
Hello! I’m Abbi (she/her) and as a therapist, I prioritize creating a welcoming space where you can show up as you are. Wherever you are in your healing journey, I strive to offer compassion, guidance, and support as I walk alongside you. I believe everyone has different parts that contribute to who they are as a person, and the adventure of therapy is finding a way for these parts to fit together, creating your sense of self. As an openly proud neurodivergent, queer woman, I’m especially passionate about working with and supporting members within these communities. Outside the therapy space, I unwind with a cozy night in watching Netflix, playing video games, or heading out for a night out dancing with friends. Learning about and connecting with people is important to me, and I bring that interest into my work with my clients.
MY THERAPEUTIC APPROACH IS:
Non-judgmentalAffirmingCompassionateEmpatheticCurious
Creative
InclusiveCulturally sensitiveCollaborativeIntersectionalDynamic
My approach to therapy combines a client-centered and empowering style with a focus on parts work. We all carry with us different parts of our lives, like experiences, identities, emotions, and beliefs, that all contribute to who we are. Together, we will explore these parts with curiosity so we can understand how they interact to strengthen your sense of self.
My role as a therapist is to empower you as you work to reach your goals. Your role is to show up as your authentic self and work towards these goals at your own pace. Sessions are your space and you get to choose how to use that time. Whether it’s venting about your day, celebrating a win, or simply taking a moment to take a breath, the session belongs to you. I truly believe you know yourself best, and I’m here to walk alongside you on your journey.
I work with teens and adults navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, and trauma, as well as those within in the LGBTQIA+ and BDSM and kink communities. My lived experiences within these communities allow me a deeper understanding of the unique challenges many clients face. This also reinforces my commitment to offering an affirming and non-judgmental therapeutic environment, so my clients feel seen and affirmed. If this connects with you and aligns with what you are seeking, I would be honored to support you as you take your next steps in healing.
MY TRAINING
I am a master’s level associate clinician under the supervision of Janie Wilkerson, LPC/MHSP-S (TN) working to accrue client session hours towards a Tennessee professional counselor license. I received my BS in psychology and MS in Counseling, with a focus in clinical mental health, from Austin Peay State University. My experiences in my courses and with my professors pushed me to a career of counseling and my desire to make a difference in people’s lives. I completed my internship at Centerstone. This allowed me a wide range of experiences with various clients and other clinicians. I strive to always keep learning more and receive training in various modalities, areas of interest, and new research. I take every opportunity I can to research and learn more about the LGBTQIA+ and BDSM/kink communities and promoting a safe and affirming environment for those clients.
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS
- American Counseling Association (ACA)
- Society for Sexual, Affectional, Intersex, and Gender Expansive Identities (SAIGE)