About Us

In 2022, therapists and close friends Jessica, Connie, and Elizabeth embarked on a journey to create a safe, nurturing space focused on trauma recovery. Together, these friends-turned-founders worked to create an environment that encourages personal growth alongside genuine human connection. Fueled by their shared vision, they founded the Bellevue Trauma Recovery Center (BTRC).

The BTRC became a passion project that combined their expertise and unwavering commitment to informed, ethical, and compassionate care. The BTRC was carefully curated as a space where individuals can find relief and support on their path to recovery and resilience. The BTRC instills hope for those seeking healing from past traumas through innovative therapeutic approaches and a nurturing environment.

Jessica, Connie, and Elizabeth envision each person leaving the BTRC with a renewed realization of their inner strength and increased self-trust. The founders and clinicians at the BTRC hope that each person who receives treatment from us will leave knowing they possess the resilience necessary to navigate life’s challenges.

Resilience

The ability to adapt that enables not only recovery but also proactive learning and growth through overcoming adversity.

Meet the Team!

Amanda Pavlenko
BTRC Administrative Assistant

Amanda coordinates all BTRC administrative tasks and is responsible for supporting clients with excellent and friendly customer service. She assists with scheduling, billing, and can answer any questions about the wide array of BTRC services.

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Elizabeth Abbruzza
MA, LMHC, LPC, CCPS
Clinical Director

Elizabeth, the Co-Founder and Clinical Director of the Bellevue Trauma Recovery Center, brings a wealth of expertise and dedication to her role. She holds a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Gonzaga University and is licensed to practice in both Washington and Colorado. With a dynamic career spanning various settings, Elizabeth has cultivated a passionate commitment to helping individuals and families recover from traumatic events.

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Dr. Connie Zollner
Psy.D, LMHC, LPC, CCPS-C, CSAT-C
Director of Operations

Connie, the Co-Founder and Director of Operations at the Bellevue Trauma Recovery Center (BTRC), earned her doctorate degree in Counseling Psychology from Northwest University and is currently licensed in Colorado (LPC) and Washington (LMHC). Connie has extensive experience working with diverse populations, including children, teens, and adults and is dedicated to advocating and supporting neurodiverse individuals, particularly in underserved communities.

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Dr. Jessica Lamar
Psy.D, LMHC, LPC, CPTT
Director of Business Development and Strategy

Jessica, the Co-Founder and Director of Business Development and Strategy at the Bellevue Trauma Recovery Center (BTRC), holds a Doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology from the Arizona School of Professional Psychology. As a Licensed Mental Health Therapist in Washington and Colorado States, Jessica has dedicated her career to supporting individuals and families through traumatic circumstances and life-changing transitions in forensic, intensive, and outpatient settings.

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Abby Carey
MA, LMHC, LPC, CMHS, NCC
Therapist

Abby is an individual and couples therapist here at the Bellevue Trauma Recovery Center. She earned her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Gonzaga University and is currently licensed to practice in both Washington and Texas. Throughout her career she has prioritized fostering strong therapeutic relationships built on compassion for self and others. Practicing from a trauma informed, integrative approach, Abby uses many therapeutic modalities including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Narrative therapy.

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Whitney Dickey
MA, LMFTA
Therapist

Whitney is an individual and couples therapist at the Bellevue Trauma Recovery Center. She holds a Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University in Santa Barbara and is licensed to practice in Washington State. With dedication and expertise in the field of mental health, she is committed to providing comprehensive, trauma-informed therapeutic support.

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