Mrs. Abigail Colon-Santana, Counseling Intern

The Beginning

Caring and curiosity have been a part of who I am for as long as I can remember. As a child, my constant questions and reflections helped me explore the world and make sense of the people and experiences around me. Over time, this curiosity grew into an ability to see situations from different perspectives, which allowed me to be the support that the people around me needed. Without realizing it, I became a safe space, a person who someone others could turn to, trust, and feel heard by. I’m grateful to have been that listening ear, and those early experiences helped shape the counselor I am becoming today.  

The Journey 

At the end of my high school years, I had to make an important decision that would shape the rest of my life. After debating whether I wanted to learn more about the biology of the human body or how the mind works, I decided, and I believe you know how that went. I enrolled in the Interamerican University of Puerto Rico to do my bachelor’s degree in Psychology to pursue what I knew was my calling, my way of serving others. After hard work and much sacrifice, I completed my bachelor’s degree in three years. After such intense years, I took a pause, but then I realized that time was passing, and I hadn’t yet fulfilled my dream. Now, I am in the final year of my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, completing my field experience and refining my counseling skills. 

My Training  

While pursuing my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals facing a wide range of challenges from mental health concerns and relationship difficulties to grief and everyday stressors. These experiences have shown me how much loneliness and hopelessness people often carry until they finally feel truly heard. Through this work, I’ve learned that being an effective counselor means more than listening, it involves joining clients in a process of vulnerability, trust, growth, and empowerment. 

My New Journey

I see counseling as a shared journey of exploration and growth. My role is not to take the lead, but to walk with clients as we uncover strengths, confront challenges, and move toward the lives they want to live. My client offers the road, and we work on guidance, perspective, and practical tools. However, I truly believe true progress comes from empowering clients to take ownership of their own healing process. When life feels overwhelming, counseling can open the door to deeper self-understanding and new possibilities.

What You Can Expect From Me 

I strive to offer a safe space where you can feel accepted, valued, and respected. I’m committed to honoring your experiences with respect and compassion as we explore the challenges you’re facing. My work focuses on helping clients understand underlying patterns, and develop practical strategies and skills for positive growth. I trust in each person’s ability to overcome obstacles, and my goal is to help you tap into the strengths that already exist within you.