I think you are right, since the stems look sturdy - they would very probably send new shoots. Just baby your Columnea a bit, take it home and do not freeze it anymore.

Yes - I think it is a typical reaction for any kind of stress - dropping leaves.

Irina

My experience is that the stems will remain bare :-(

Domeman -

you are right, the leaves will not grow back. Hopefully the new shoots will appear - and if they would be growing, they would possibly be bushy enough to look good and cover the center of the pot. If not - and the plant would stay ugly - they could be used for rooting and starting a new pot.

may be it would be a good idea - when the new shoots would start showing - to to give the plant a good haircut.