Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Counselling in Langwarrin South, VIC

Photo of Nicole Day, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Nicole Day
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Serves Area
I assist individuals, families, and couples in regaining control and exploring new perspectives to realign with their core beliefs and values within a safe environment. My approach is tailored to every individual. This ensures support is consistently provided throughout the discussion and decision making process. My guidance aims to empower clients to develop plans toward more fulfilled and happy lives. This fosters meaningful connections and cultivates new skills that promote improved efficacy, self-esteem, and confidence.
I assist individuals, families, and couples in regaining control and exploring new perspectives to realign with their core beliefs and values within a safe environment. My approach is tailored to every individual. This ensures support is consistently provided throughout the discussion and decision making process. My guidance aims to empower clients to develop plans toward more fulfilled and happy lives. This fosters meaningful connections and cultivates new skills that promote improved efficacy, self-esteem, and confidence.
(03) 5909 9309 View (03) 5909 9309
Photo of Kara Lee John, Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Kara Lee John
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialise in trauma informed care and have a deep understanding of the complex and long-lasting impacts it can have on you. In some cases, therapy itself can be a source of more trauma. Your safety is my highest priority as we work together and empower you to have a say in how we approach your symptoms. There is no one size fits all and so with your feedback, we will find the best suited interventions for you.
I specialise in trauma informed care and have a deep understanding of the complex and long-lasting impacts it can have on you. In some cases, therapy itself can be a source of more trauma. Your safety is my highest priority as we work together and empower you to have a say in how we approach your symptoms. There is no one size fits all and so with your feedback, we will find the best suited interventions for you.
(03) 7500 5629 View (03) 7500 5629
Photo of Nicole Aualiitia - Life In Focus Counselling, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Life In Focus Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Serves Area
Change begins when you feel connected, seen, and heard. My role as your counsellor is to create a space where those experiences can take place—gently, respectfully, and with purpose. I believe that real growth and transformation happen when we feel safe enough to explore our struggles, challenge old patterns, and reconnect with our strengths. I work with clients using evidence-based strategies that foster empowerment, resilience, and self-belief. My approach is person centered. Whether you're facing anxiety, trauma, or life transitions, I tailor sessions to meet you where you are, with compassion, respect, and a belief in yourself
Change begins when you feel connected, seen, and heard. My role as your counsellor is to create a space where those experiences can take place—gently, respectfully, and with purpose. I believe that real growth and transformation happen when we feel safe enough to explore our struggles, challenge old patterns, and reconnect with our strengths. I work with clients using evidence-based strategies that foster empowerment, resilience, and self-belief. My approach is person centered. Whether you're facing anxiety, trauma, or life transitions, I tailor sessions to meet you where you are, with compassion, respect, and a belief in yourself
(03) 5905 7927 View (03) 5905 7927
Photo of Jacqui Snooks, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Jacqui Snooks
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Serves Area
I am a psychotherapist and counsellor and the founder and Clinical Director of Haven Counselling and Psychotherapy. I offer a safe and confidential space to help you work through and resolve the issues you are facing which bring you to therapy. Working collaboratively, I help my clients establish more balance, connection, understanding and a greater sense of well-being in their lives. I specialise in helping people manage a range of issues including: relationship breakdowns, loss, depression, trauma, PTSD, addictions, stress and anxiety. Work with me to discover the tools needed to live a more satisfying life right now.
I am a psychotherapist and counsellor and the founder and Clinical Director of Haven Counselling and Psychotherapy. I offer a safe and confidential space to help you work through and resolve the issues you are facing which bring you to therapy. Working collaboratively, I help my clients establish more balance, connection, understanding and a greater sense of well-being in their lives. I specialise in helping people manage a range of issues including: relationship breakdowns, loss, depression, trauma, PTSD, addictions, stress and anxiety. Work with me to discover the tools needed to live a more satisfying life right now.
(08) 9126 9430 View (08) 9126 9430

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Julie Wacker, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Julie Wacker
Counsellor, ACA-L2
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a therapist, I work with various counselling approaches such as: Humanistic Approach, CBT, ACT and additionally EFT – Tapping, Hypnosis and Art Therapy.
I am a counsellor and Life Coach located in Sunbury. Life can be very tough and stressful and sometimes we need some professional help. I am committed to the care of clients ranging from adolescents, adults, elderly and couples. I work with individual and couples who would like to overcome difficulties in their current situation. Each client is unique hence requires a personal counselling approach that is catered entirely for them. My approach incorporates empathy, professionalism and mindfulness. Many individuals may find themselves experiencing various financial, mental and / or physical struggles.
As a therapist, I work with various counselling approaches such as: Humanistic Approach, CBT, ACT and additionally EFT – Tapping, Hypnosis and Art Therapy.
I am a counsellor and Life Coach located in Sunbury. Life can be very tough and stressful and sometimes we need some professional help. I am committed to the care of clients ranging from adolescents, adults, elderly and couples. I work with individual and couples who would like to overcome difficulties in their current situation. Each client is unique hence requires a personal counselling approach that is catered entirely for them. My approach incorporates empathy, professionalism and mindfulness. Many individuals may find themselves experiencing various financial, mental and / or physical struggles.
(03) 8007 2065 View (03) 8007 2065
Photo of Nicky Angelone, Counsellor, PACFA
Nicky Angelone
Counsellor, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Dingley Village, VIC 3172
For some clients ACT, with its strong mindfulness skills & application is most helpful.
Hi, I'm a Registered Clinical Counsellor (PACFA) and Yoga and Meditation teacher. I specialise in supporting high achievers experiencing stress, overwhelm, anxiety, burnout, loss, and career and life transitions. I understand the unique demands of corporate life; I've been there. My previous career was in finance, and projects. And I'm a human, like you; I've suffered losses and challenges, and navigated transitions. My lived experience of caring for a terminally ill parent, parenting children with life threatening conditions, managing health challenges and fostering important relationships compliments my formal therapy training.
For some clients ACT, with its strong mindfulness skills & application is most helpful.
Hi, I'm a Registered Clinical Counsellor (PACFA) and Yoga and Meditation teacher. I specialise in supporting high achievers experiencing stress, overwhelm, anxiety, burnout, loss, and career and life transitions. I understand the unique demands of corporate life; I've been there. My previous career was in finance, and projects. And I'm a human, like you; I've suffered losses and challenges, and navigated transitions. My lived experience of caring for a terminally ill parent, parenting children with life threatening conditions, managing health challenges and fostering important relationships compliments my formal therapy training.
(03) 7500 5911 View (03) 7500 5911
Photo of Natasha Affonso, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Natasha Affonso
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Online Only
I have a trauma informed, person-centred approach and incorporate aspects of cognitive behaviour therapy, psychoeducation, acceptance commitment therapy and schema therapy into the counselling process.
Coming from a Christian background, I bring these values into focus for those needing a Christian perspective. Also, as a migrant to this country, I relate to the challenges this journey presents and can support people in that space. I work with teenagers and adults of all ages and provide counselling in English and Hindi.
I have a trauma informed, person-centred approach and incorporate aspects of cognitive behaviour therapy, psychoeducation, acceptance commitment therapy and schema therapy into the counselling process.
Coming from a Christian background, I bring these values into focus for those needing a Christian perspective. Also, as a migrant to this country, I relate to the challenges this journey presents and can support people in that space. I work with teenagers and adults of all ages and provide counselling in English and Hindi.
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Photo of Cass Kozulin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Cass Kozulin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Serves Area
I adapt my style and techniques to suit individual needs and use a range of evidence based treatments including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy ( ACT) and Mindfulness work.
Hi I'm Cass! I am passionate about working with people to help create a happier and more fulfilled life. I believe that everyone has the potential create positive change despite adversity; we just need the tools to be able do so.
I adapt my style and techniques to suit individual needs and use a range of evidence based treatments including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy ( ACT) and Mindfulness work.
Hi I'm Cass! I am passionate about working with people to help create a happier and more fulfilled life. I believe that everyone has the potential create positive change despite adversity; we just need the tools to be able do so.
(03) 7003 2538 View (03) 7003 2538
Photo of Teegan Meleah Kelley - Ayana Psychology Services, Psychologist, PsychD, Assoc MAPS
Ayana Psychology Services
Psychologist, PsychD, Assoc MAPS
Rye, VIC 3941
The Ayana team draw from a broad range of evidence based, therapeutic methods including Cognitive-Behavior Therapy, Schema Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Teegan is a registered psychologist and is also an EMDR Therapist. She brings warmth, knowledge, thoughtfulness, and compassion into her practice. Her treatment is specifically tailored to individual needs, and she draws on her training, qualifications, and experience to gain excellent results for her clients. Areas of Practice Teegan has extensive experience working with teenagers and adults, including older adults, experiencing a wide range of psychological problems including: - Trauma - anxiety disorders - Stress management - Depression - Grief and loss - Workplace Issues
The Ayana team draw from a broad range of evidence based, therapeutic methods including Cognitive-Behavior Therapy, Schema Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Teegan is a registered psychologist and is also an EMDR Therapist. She brings warmth, knowledge, thoughtfulness, and compassion into her practice. Her treatment is specifically tailored to individual needs, and she draws on her training, qualifications, and experience to gain excellent results for her clients. Areas of Practice Teegan has extensive experience working with teenagers and adults, including older adults, experiencing a wide range of psychological problems including: - Trauma - anxiety disorders - Stress management - Depression - Grief and loss - Workplace Issues
(03) 5906 9931 View (03) 5906 9931
Photo of Dr Jake Kraska, Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Dr Jake Kraska
Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Mount Waverley, VIC 3149
Waitlist for new clients
I combine ACT, CBT, schema therapy and narrative therapy to create personalised interventions.
As a psychologist passionate about gaming and its community, I find fulfillment working with young adults navigating life's uncertainties. My ideal clients are gamers who may feel socially isolated or misunderstood due to their unique interests. They might experience mood disruptions or a lack of confidence without knowing why. These individuals seek to find their place in the world, build meaningful connections, and harness their strengths to overcome challenges.
I combine ACT, CBT, schema therapy and narrative therapy to create personalised interventions.
As a psychologist passionate about gaming and its community, I find fulfillment working with young adults navigating life's uncertainties. My ideal clients are gamers who may feel socially isolated or misunderstood due to their unique interests. They might experience mood disruptions or a lack of confidence without knowing why. These individuals seek to find their place in the world, build meaningful connections, and harness their strengths to overcome challenges.
(03) 7500 5918 View (03) 7500 5918
Photo of Amanda Dawson, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Amanda Dawson
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Croydon, VIC 3136
I draw on a range of therapies including identifying strengths, CBT, Mindfulness based interventions, ACT, solution focused therapy
I have been a registered psychologist for over 12 years & have a range of experience working with both adolescents and adults in various settings including schools, government agencies, and private practise. I provide both short term solution focused therapy interventions, as well as longer term support for a range of issues including: anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, pre and post natal adjustment, parenting, and adolescence.
I draw on a range of therapies including identifying strengths, CBT, Mindfulness based interventions, ACT, solution focused therapy
I have been a registered psychologist for over 12 years & have a range of experience working with both adolescents and adults in various settings including schools, government agencies, and private practise. I provide both short term solution focused therapy interventions, as well as longer term support for a range of issues including: anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, pre and post natal adjustment, parenting, and adolescence.
(03) 8771 5504 View (03) 8771 5504
Photo of Rachael Flack, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Rachael Flack
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Seaford, VIC 3198
I often draw on Acceptance and Commitment therapy in my sessions, as it offers the tools for body self awareness (using meditation), practical strategies to continue to work on at home, and it is accepting of all thoughts and feelings that surface.
Hi, I am Rachael & have been a social worker since 2007. I have worked with a range of diverse clients, but my passion is to support the full motherhood journey. Having personal experience of infertility & pregnancy loss, & a mother of three children, I know the importance of having support through all of these stages of motherhood. I have focused my care & support since 2019 in caring for those trying to conceive, infertility, pregnancy & infant loss, pregnancy and birth & any time postpartum. Motherhood is a huge time of change, physically, emotionally & spiritually so it is so important to be surrounded with support.
I often draw on Acceptance and Commitment therapy in my sessions, as it offers the tools for body self awareness (using meditation), practical strategies to continue to work on at home, and it is accepting of all thoughts and feelings that surface.
Hi, I am Rachael & have been a social worker since 2007. I have worked with a range of diverse clients, but my passion is to support the full motherhood journey. Having personal experience of infertility & pregnancy loss, & a mother of three children, I know the importance of having support through all of these stages of motherhood. I have focused my care & support since 2019 in caring for those trying to conceive, infertility, pregnancy & infant loss, pregnancy and birth & any time postpartum. Motherhood is a huge time of change, physically, emotionally & spiritually so it is so important to be surrounded with support.
(03) 5909 9996 View (03) 5909 9996
Photo of Rosemary Tainsh, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Rosemary Tainsh
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Croydon, VIC 3136
Rosemary uses a number of therapeutic frameworks to inform her practice, including but not limited to Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Schema Therapy, EMDR, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Mindfulness, Interpersonal Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, and Play Therapy.
Rosemary is a warm, gentle and caring Psychologist.  Her approach is gentle yet purposeful, and uses an integrative approach to treatment.  Rosemary has a particular interest in perinatal mental health, parent and infant mental health, trauma, childhood anxiety, and parenting. Rosemary is also able to provide Autism, ADHD, Cognitive and Educational Assessments for children, adolescents, and adults. She is a fully registered Psychologist with AHPRA, a member of the Australian Association of Psychologists, and an Associate Member of the Australian Psychological Society.
Rosemary uses a number of therapeutic frameworks to inform her practice, including but not limited to Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Schema Therapy, EMDR, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Mindfulness, Interpersonal Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, and Play Therapy.
Rosemary is a warm, gentle and caring Psychologist.  Her approach is gentle yet purposeful, and uses an integrative approach to treatment.  Rosemary has a particular interest in perinatal mental health, parent and infant mental health, trauma, childhood anxiety, and parenting. Rosemary is also able to provide Autism, ADHD, Cognitive and Educational Assessments for children, adolescents, and adults. She is a fully registered Psychologist with AHPRA, a member of the Australian Association of Psychologists, and an Associate Member of the Australian Psychological Society.
(03) 4421 6346 View (03) 4421 6346
Photo of Talitha Amanda Newton - Minding Our Minds, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Minding Our Minds
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Bentleigh East, VIC 3165
She utilises a variety of therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, The Gottman Method, Compassion Focused Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to support clients in their healing.
Talitha Newton, MA-COU: Relationship Counsellor & Psychotherapist. An accredited Relationship Counsellor with the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) and Founder of Minding Our Minds Psychotherapy Clinic and The Relationship Counselling Centre.
She utilises a variety of therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, The Gottman Method, Compassion Focused Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to support clients in their healing.
Talitha Newton, MA-COU: Relationship Counsellor & Psychotherapist. An accredited Relationship Counsellor with the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) and Founder of Minding Our Minds Psychotherapy Clinic and The Relationship Counselling Centre.
(03) 7500 5958 View (03) 7500 5958
Photo of Kym Anderton, Counsellor, PACFA
Kym Anderton
Counsellor, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Mornington, VIC 3931
I draw from integrative approaches such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Somatic Experiencing, Trauma Informed Therapy, and other relevant models.
The essence of my therapy is in building solid, safe relationships collaboratively with my clients, catering to the unique needs of each person in a non-judgmental way. Rather than tell someone what they need, I prefer a merging of minds to make meaningful and sustainable differences. Together we explore resources to overcome adversity and suffering whilst learning to accept and adapt to the complicated facets of life where required. My therapeutic approach is also rooted in a deep exploration of early life experiences, with a focus on understanding and facilitating the healing of trauma or patterned behaviour.
I draw from integrative approaches such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Somatic Experiencing, Trauma Informed Therapy, and other relevant models.
The essence of my therapy is in building solid, safe relationships collaboratively with my clients, catering to the unique needs of each person in a non-judgmental way. Rather than tell someone what they need, I prefer a merging of minds to make meaningful and sustainable differences. Together we explore resources to overcome adversity and suffering whilst learning to accept and adapt to the complicated facets of life where required. My therapeutic approach is also rooted in a deep exploration of early life experiences, with a focus on understanding and facilitating the healing of trauma or patterned behaviour.
(03) 5910 3030 View (03) 5910 3030
Photo of Brett Mackie, Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Brett Mackie
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Serves Area
Using evidence-based therapies like CBT, ACT, EMDR, and IFS, I tailor support to what actually works for you.
My ideal client isn't perfect-they've been through things, lost confidence, or carry pain they rarely speak aloud. They're often high-functioning but exhausted, craving a circuit-breaker. They want more than just symptom relief-they want clarity, connection, and a life that actually feels like theirs. They come with questions like "Is this all there is?" or "Why can't I just move on?" —and they're ready, even if nervously, to do the real work of healing with someone who gets it.
Using evidence-based therapies like CBT, ACT, EMDR, and IFS, I tailor support to what actually works for you.
My ideal client isn't perfect-they've been through things, lost confidence, or carry pain they rarely speak aloud. They're often high-functioning but exhausted, craving a circuit-breaker. They want more than just symptom relief-they want clarity, connection, and a life that actually feels like theirs. They come with questions like "Is this all there is?" or "Why can't I just move on?" —and they're ready, even if nervously, to do the real work of healing with someone who gets it.
(03) 7303 3771 View (03) 7303 3771
Photo of Dominic James Lawrenson - Dom Lawrenson Counselling, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Dom Lawrenson Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Berwick, VIC 3806
I use a mixture of Existential, CBT/ ACT, Person-centred and strength based approaches to counselling.
Dom brings a friendly and relaxed atmosphere to counselling with couples. Since 2018 he has conducted counselling sessions with clients from very diverse backgrounds and experiences on a weekly basis. He is an enthusiastic member of the ACA (Australian Counselling Association), PACFA and an accredited Supervisor to other counsellors. He continually builds on his expertise and knowledge to provide the highest level of care and assistance. In providing a non-judgmental space Dom always strives to create an encouraging environment that helps his clients be heard.
I use a mixture of Existential, CBT/ ACT, Person-centred and strength based approaches to counselling.
Dom brings a friendly and relaxed atmosphere to counselling with couples. Since 2018 he has conducted counselling sessions with clients from very diverse backgrounds and experiences on a weekly basis. He is an enthusiastic member of the ACA (Australian Counselling Association), PACFA and an accredited Supervisor to other counsellors. He continually builds on his expertise and knowledge to provide the highest level of care and assistance. In providing a non-judgmental space Dom always strives to create an encouraging environment that helps his clients be heard.
(03) 8797 5423 View (03) 8797 5423
Photo of Emma Fuller, Psychologist, MA, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Emma Fuller
Psychologist, MA, Australian Association of Psychologists - Member
Pakenham, VIC 3810
Modalities may include: CBT, ACT, IPT, Trauma informed practice, EMDR, attachment, IFT, Ego State Therapy, and Hypnotherapy.
Emma has been working as a psychologist in the Casey/ Cardinia area for many years. She loves learning about people and helping them create the lives they want, learning how to live with compassion for self and freedom to choose your future. Over the years she has developed a compassionate and effective therapeutic approach to working with her clients. Her main goal is for her clients to understand their psychological needs and be able to use the skills and tools necessary to create good psychological health.
Modalities may include: CBT, ACT, IPT, Trauma informed practice, EMDR, attachment, IFT, Ego State Therapy, and Hypnotherapy.
Emma has been working as a psychologist in the Casey/ Cardinia area for many years. She loves learning about people and helping them create the lives they want, learning how to live with compassion for self and freedom to choose your future. Over the years she has developed a compassionate and effective therapeutic approach to working with her clients. Her main goal is for her clients to understand their psychological needs and be able to use the skills and tools necessary to create good psychological health.
(03) 5910 7894 View (03) 5910 7894
Photo of Ashna Arun Mangharam - Mangrove Counselling Co., Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Mangrove Counselling Co.
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Serves Area
I have received formal training in Mindfulness-based Cognitive Behavioural therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, with additional certifications in Internal Family Systems, Integrative Somatic Trauma Therapy and Narrative Therapy.
Looking for a safe space to unpack and reflect? Welcome to Mangrove Counselling Co. With a masters degree in Counselling and a background in Psychology, I have worked in the field of mental health for over 10 years, most recently working as a trauma counsellor in the community sector. I work with adolescents and adults who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and childhood abuse & neglect. I am also happy to offer a space to individuals navigating through neurodivergence, questioning their gender identity or those wanting to explore and rediscover their authentic selves after a loss or big life transition.
I have received formal training in Mindfulness-based Cognitive Behavioural therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, with additional certifications in Internal Family Systems, Integrative Somatic Trauma Therapy and Narrative Therapy.
Looking for a safe space to unpack and reflect? Welcome to Mangrove Counselling Co. With a masters degree in Counselling and a background in Psychology, I have worked in the field of mental health for over 10 years, most recently working as a trauma counsellor in the community sector. I work with adolescents and adults who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and childhood abuse & neglect. I am also happy to offer a space to individuals navigating through neurodivergence, questioning their gender identity or those wanting to explore and rediscover their authentic selves after a loss or big life transition.
(03) 5615 2616 View (03) 5615 2616
Photo of Robyn Scordilis - The Garden House - Counselling & Coaching, Counsellor, ACA-L1
As a person centred therapist I use a range of therapy modalities such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy.
I support people navigating life’s transitions—grief and loss, anxiety, stress, and identity shifts. If you are feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or uncertain about the future, and seeking a safe, compassionate space to process emotions, regain clarity, and build resilience, in order to feel grounded, confident, and at peace within yourself.
As a person centred therapist I use a range of therapy modalities such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy.
I support people navigating life’s transitions—grief and loss, anxiety, stress, and identity shifts. If you are feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or uncertain about the future, and seeking a safe, compassionate space to process emotions, regain clarity, and build resilience, in order to feel grounded, confident, and at peace within yourself.
0450 413 261 View 0450 413 261
Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Counsellors

How does acceptance and commitment therapy work?

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy encourages a person to listen to their self-talk. A person’s inner dialog can be indicative of how they treat themselves. ACT also encourages self-compassion; this can lead to a better understanding of negative thought patterns and emotional states. This understanding can then lead the individual to needed behavior change.

What are the goals of acceptance and commitment therapy?

The goal of acceptance and commitment is to expand a person’s psychological flexibility, a trait that encourages an individual to live in the present moment and to accept all their thoughts, feelings, and emotions, even ones that are difficult such as sadness and anxiety. In ACT, this acceptance is congruent with the individual’s values and beliefs.

Does acceptance and commitment therapy work for depression?

Acceptance and commitment therapy is effective for depression because it allows the individual to view their discomfort and suffering differently. Depressive feelings about relationship heartaches, for example, are a part of life. A despondent person learns to let go of their struggles and instead view their painful thoughts and feelings with compassion. This will lead the individual toward positive change.

How long are people typically in acceptance and commitment therapy?

A typical acceptance and commitment therapy session is 50 minutes long with one session per week. Treatment for common problems such as anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties can last between eight weeks to four months. However, more severe cases may require more than one session a week and/or a longer time frame for treatment.