Cartwright Counseling
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Abby Cartwright, Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Compassionate, Collaborative Therapy in Hamilton County

I help adults and teens navigate anxiety, trauma, burnout, and life transitions.

Who I Help

I work with adults and adolescents who are navigating life's most challenging moments. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, recovering from trauma, managing burnout, or facing major life transitions, I'm here to help you find clarity, resilience, and peace.

Adults

Navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, burnout, and life transitions with evidence-based therapy.

Teens & Adolescents

Supporting teens through anxiety, depression, family conflict, and the challenges of growing up.

High-Achieving Individuals, Athletes and Creatives

Helping high performers manage perfectionism, burnout, and performance anxiety.

Families

Strengthening family relationships and resolving conflict with compassionate family therapy.

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My Approach

I believe therapy works best when it's collaborative, evidence-based, and deeply personalized to your unique needs. I create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your experiences and build the skills you need to move forward.

Compassionate & Curious

I approach each client with genuine curiosity, respect for their unique experiences, and deep compassion for their journey.

Evidence-Based

I use proven therapeutic modalities including cognitive-behavioral therapy, family systems work, and strength-based approaches.

Personalized

I tailor my approach to honor each person's unique strengths, values, and goals for therapy.

EMDR & Trauma Work

As an EMDR-certified therapist, I specialize in helping clients process and heal from trauma. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based approach that helps your brain naturally process traumatic memories, reducing their emotional intensity and allowing you to move forward.

Whether you're dealing with single-incident trauma, complex PTSD, or ongoing anxiety rooted in past experiences, I'm equipped to help you find healing and resilience.

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EMDR for Athletes & High Performers

In addition to trauma work, I specialize in using EMDR for performance enhancement — particularly with athletes and high-achieving teens.

Competitive sports require more than physical ability. They require mental steadiness under pressure. Many of the athletes I work with are incredibly capable — but struggle with:

  • Performance anxiety before competitions
  • Mental blocks after an injury or mistake
  • Fear of letting down teammates or coaches
  • Perfectionism and self-criticism
  • Loss of confidence after setbacks

Often, these blocks are not about skill. They are about how the nervous system responds to pressure.

Using EMDR and the "Future Template" approach, we can:

  • Reprocess past mistakes, injuries, or performance failures
  • Reduce pre-competition anxiety
  • Strengthen confidence and focus
  • Improve resilience after setbacks
  • Activate a calm, controlled performance mindset

Whether preparing for a big game, tryout, tournament, or season, therapy can help athletes access their training with clarity and composure. This approach is also helpful for high-achieving adults experiencing burnout or performance-related stress.

Supporting Teens & Families

Adolescence brings unique challenges—social pressures, identity formation, academic stress, and family dynamics. I work with teens to build resilience, navigate relationships, and develop healthy coping skills. I also work with families to improve communication and strengthen bonds.

Whether your teen is struggling with anxiety, depression, family conflict, or the general challenges of growing up, I'm here to support both the teen and the family system.

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What to Expect

Free Consultation

We start with a brief call to discuss your needs and see if we're a good fit.

Goal Setting

Together, we'll establish clear, meaningful goals for your therapy journey.

Evidence-Based Work

We'll use proven therapeutic techniques tailored to your specific needs.

Regular Check-Ins

We'll track progress and adjust our approach as needed to support your growth.

Education & Credentials

Degrees

  • Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Criminal Justice, Indiana University Bloomington
  • Master's in Social Work, Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis

Licenses & Certifications

  • Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Indiana
  • License in School Counseling, Ball State University Muncie
  • EMDR Certified Therapist

"Abby was exactly what I was looking for in my time of need. She helped me refocus and move forward through very challenging times. I love working with Abby. I always looked forward to my sessions because I knew it would always lead to progress."

— Client (Name withheld for privacy)

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Ready to Begin?

Take the first step toward healing and growth. Schedule your free consultation today.