About Me.

Welcome, my name is Dr. Abigail Johal, and I received my bachelor’s in Psychology and Social Welfare from U.C. Berkeley and my doctorate in Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.) from the Wright Institute in Berkeley, CA. I believe healing occurs through a positive, therapeutic relationship and by unlocking creativity through play, art, and literature. In my practice, I utilize creative modalities to form a connection with every client, and I draw from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and attachment-based frameworks to teach new emotional skills. Since spirituality and culture are often integral to the healing process, I take time to understand the unique backgrounds of each of my clients. I also draw from my own experience as a multiracial and queer woman. My style is warm, genuine, playful, and supportive.

My areas of speciality include LGBTQIA+ youth, including transgender and non-binary youth receiving gender-affirming medical care, individuals impacted by the foster care or juvenile justice systems, and families reconciling cultural or religious differences. I treat a range of clinical presentations, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and disruptive behavior. I also help my clients work through common life challenges, such as family changes, peer problems, academic challenges, and conflicts of identity.

I have seven years of experience providing therapy services to children, adults, and families. Before I started my private practice, I worked in schools throughout the East Bay Area, a residential treatment center in Southern California, and multiple clinics within the Kaiser Permanente Northern California system. In addition, I spent one year running the WIPAD program, an internship for high school students of color interested in careers within the psychology field. I recently published my first book entitled, “Clinical Psychology Internship for Underrepresented Students: An Inclusive Approach to Higher Education,” a curriculum based on the program’s model. I look forward to meeting you and starting our journey together!