Deborah (Deb) Abbott

I thoroughly enjoy working with UCSC students of all sexual/gender identities, ethnicities, and abilities. As a UCSC alumna and as the Cantú Queer Center's founding director, I have great familiarity with the campus and its resources. I understand the pleasures and challenges of being a student. I have extensive experience working with queer, nonbinary, and trans students on issues of coming out, transitioning, meeting and maintaining friendships, dating, and more. Having been a first generation Slug, I especially enjoy working with first-gen students. My UCSC student clients describe me as easy to talk to, non-judgmental, supportive, relatable, and kind. I help students assess and expand their relationship, communication, and problem solving skills. I have an integrative approach to working with depression, anxiety, and other issues common to undergraduates and graduate students. I like helping students with mental and/or physical health challenges have full access to campus resources and facilities, and to have a deep experience of belonging.