
Abby Claytor
LMSW
Therapist
Abby Clayton, LMSW, is dedicated to helping individuals cultivate a strong mind-body connection and attune to their emotional and physical needs. She believes that by listening to our intuition, we can better understand what is truly needed for balance, fulfillment, and overall well-being. Just as physical health is prioritized, it is crucial to recognize which emotional and social needs are being met and where there may be gaps. Abby creates a supportive space for individuals to explore their needs, deepen self-awareness, and build strong support systems. This approach helps individuals not just cope, but truly thrive. By equipping individuals with tools and support before life's challenges arise, Abby helps them cultivate a sense of safety and resilience. She believes therapy is a crucial part of this process and is dedicated to guiding individuals on their journey.
Abby provides in-person services to students in Anne Arundel County Public schools. She utilizes a strength-based, person-centered approach, incorporating techniques such as Motivational Interviewing, Trauma-Focused CBT, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, play therapy, and social skills training. Abby effectively addresses a wide range of concerns including family issues, ADHD, anger management, anxiety, bipolar disorder, body image, borderline personality disorder, communication challenges, depression, disordered eating, domestic violence, life transitions, self-esteem challenges, stress management, and trauma.
Outside of work, Abby enjoys exercising, playing soccer, practicing yoga, reading, traveling, cooking, and dancing. She also loves spending time with her family, friends, and her cat, and is always looking for new hobbies.
“Seek to understand before seeking to be understood”
Education
Bachelor of Social Work Minor Psychology from University of Maryland Baltimore County
Master Degree in Clinical Social Work University of Maryland School of Social Work
Specialized Training
SUDWE (Substance Use Disorder Workforce Expansion) 2025 ; Trauma Focused CBT 2.0 Web Based Training 2025
Location(s)
Anne Arundel Co. Public Schools
Client Population
Children 5+, adolescents and adults
Treatment Modalities
Motivational Interviewing, person-centered, play therapy, social skills training, strengths based therapy, trauma-focused CBT,Dialectical Behavior Therapy
Challenges Treated
absent parents, addiction concerns, ADHD, anger management, anxiety, bipolar disorder, blended families, body image, borderline personality disorder, communication challenges, dealing with divorce/separation, depression, disordered eating, domestic violence, family conflict, life transitions, self-esteem challenges, stress management, trauma


