Bellevue Psychotherapy, PS LTD
Dr. Abigail Martin

Dr. Abigail Martin

Abigail Martin, PsyD

Washington Licensed Psychologist PY61437086

Massachusetts Licensed Psychologist 11928

Dr. Martin has clinical expertise working with people experiencing co-occurring disorders, substance use disorders, behavioral addictions, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and trauma. She has additional expertise in multicultural psychology and working with individuals with international backgrounds and multicultural and multiracial identities. Dr. Martin also has significant experience working with individuals in high-stress jobs or environments.

Dr. Martin conducts therapeutic assessment and psychological testing to clarify diagnoses and inform the treatment of various mental health diagnoses, autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder, and specific learning disorders.

Background and Training

  • Doctorate in Clinical Psychology (APA Accredited) Antioch University Seattle
  • MA, Psychology – Antioch University Seattle
  • BA, Philosophy – Seattle University
  • Doctoral Residency in Clinical Psychology – Center for Multicultural Training in Psychology (CMTP) at Boston University School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center. Year-long specialized rotations in evidence-based treatment of psychosis and mood disorders, child and adolescent assessment.
  • Postdoctoral Fellowship – Boston University School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center. Year-long specialized rotation in addiction psychology, child and adolescent assessment, and adult therapeutic assessment and psychological testing.
  • Pre-doctoral Internship – Naval Hospital Bremerton
  • Pre-doctoral Internship – Monroe Correctional Complex
  • Practicum – Antioch University Community Mental Health Clinic
  • Social Justice Practice – Merrill Gardens Senior Living
  • Research focus: Systems of privilege and oppression, understanding the development of social privilege awareness, multicultural and anti-oppressive approaches to psychological assessment and supervision
  • Assistant Professor at Boston Medical Center (former)

Orientation

Finding a therapist who is a good fit for you can be an overwhelming process. Psychologists can help you determine fit by sharing our theoretical orientation. Theoretical orientations frame our understanding and conceptualization of the client’s experiences. They provide a guide for clinical work and inform both therapeutic interventions and assessments.

My professional theoretical orientation is relational psychodynamic and integrationist. Relational psychodynamic theory emphasizes the significance of relationships in our lives. Challenges in life often stem from unhealthy patterns of relationships with self, others, feelings, thoughts, and behaviors; patterns that often begin with and emerge from childhood and early attachment figures. Relational psychodynamic theory also focuses on the interplay between unconscious psychological processes and conscious awareness. These relationship patterns, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are not always conscious but can be explored and uncovered in therapy. This exploration can help individuals discover their true selves, allowing them to develop healthier lives and more healing and authentic relationships.

As an integrationist, I also draw from other theories. These include the humanistic approach, which emphasizes each individual’s uniqueness, inherent worth, and human potential. I also use existential theory, which focuses on the importance of a person’s search for meaning and purpose in life. I additionally draw from cognitive-behavioral approaches, which highlight the impact of cognitions on feelings and behaviors and how the environment can shape behaviors. Finally, I augment my orientation by considering the role of culture, identity, and intersectionality, as well as issues of power, privilege, and oppression in human experiences.

Treatment Approach

I am passionate about taking a client-first approach that respects each person’s goals, autonomy, and identity. I use a multicultural and trauma-informed approach to therapy and integrate evidence-based treatments, including relational psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), cognitive processing therapy (CPT), and community reinforcement approach (CRA). I believe it is necessary to consider each client’s unique concerns and background to tailor the treatment approach to best fit them. A strong therapeutic relationship is also essential, and it is important for clients to feel supported and safe. I, therefore, aim to create an open, non-judgmental space grounded in trust and empathy.

Therapeutic Assessment and Psychological Assessment:

I conduct therapeutic assessments and psychological testing for children, adolescents, and adults. Trying to get the answers you need to live a healthier and happier life can be frustrating. I am committed to providing thorough, personalized, and standardized testing to inform accurate diagnosis, provide individualized treatment recommendations, and support access to appropriate services, resources, and evidence-based treatment when indicated. My scope of assessment services includes Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Specific Learning Disorders (SLD) or learning disabilities, general intelligence/cognitive abilities, and disorders involving mood, addiction, trauma/complex trauma, personality, and co-occurring disorders. Through therapeutic assessments, I can also help clients answer a wide range of questions they might have about themselves or their relationships.