Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Counselling in Bishop's Stortford

Nick Vinyard
Counsellor, BACP
Online Booking Available at - Givingcounselling. com - Are you struggling with issues related to addiction, anxiety or depression ? Finding it hard to cope with major life changes? There comes a time when help is needed from a certified professional. I’m a qualified counsellor working from a comfortable therapy centre in the Bishop Stortford area, and I’m here to support your journey toward healing, growth, change and recovery. Contact me using the email form, calling or messaging. If leaving a voicemail you do not need to leave a detailed message – just your name, contact details and an idea of your interest in counselling.
Online Booking Available at - Givingcounselling. com - Are you struggling with issues related to addiction, anxiety or depression ? Finding it hard to cope with major life changes? There comes a time when help is needed from a certified professional. I’m a qualified counsellor working from a comfortable therapy centre in the Bishop Stortford area, and I’m here to support your journey toward healing, growth, change and recovery. Contact me using the email form, calling or messaging. If leaving a voicemail you do not need to leave a detailed message – just your name, contact details and an idea of your interest in counselling.
01279 976315 View 01279 976315
Maria Lawrence
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Life can present us with many challenges. Sometimes, the thought of facing our difficulties alone can be overwhelming, but it may be hard to know where to turn for support. My aim as an Integrative Counsellor and Psychotherapist is to work collaboratively with you, drawing from a wide range of resources and therapeutic disciplines, to find the approach that feels right for you. Working together in this tailored way, we will be able to recognise your issues, identify your goals, and explore ways in which you may start moving towards a happier, peaceful and more fulfilled way of living.
Life can present us with many challenges. Sometimes, the thought of facing our difficulties alone can be overwhelming, but it may be hard to know where to turn for support. My aim as an Integrative Counsellor and Psychotherapist is to work collaboratively with you, drawing from a wide range of resources and therapeutic disciplines, to find the approach that feels right for you. Working together in this tailored way, we will be able to recognise your issues, identify your goals, and explore ways in which you may start moving towards a happier, peaceful and more fulfilled way of living.
07428 716551 View 07428 716551
Dr Emilie Bourke
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
I'm trained in CBT, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, and Compassion Focused Therapy.
I’m a Highly Specialist Clinical Psychologist who supports teenagers and adults to tackle mental health challenges, build coping skills, and feel more hopeful as they look to the future. I help clients to achieve positive change in experiences such as: anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, interpersonal difficulties, demotivation, and intense fluctuation in emotions. Alongside my private practice, I'm an experienced clinician within National & Specialist CAMHS at the Maudsley. This NHS work with sixth formers makes me ideally suited to working with clients as they navigate academic, professional, social, and emotional crossroads.
I'm trained in CBT, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, and Compassion Focused Therapy.
I’m a Highly Specialist Clinical Psychologist who supports teenagers and adults to tackle mental health challenges, build coping skills, and feel more hopeful as they look to the future. I help clients to achieve positive change in experiences such as: anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, interpersonal difficulties, demotivation, and intense fluctuation in emotions. Alongside my private practice, I'm an experienced clinician within National & Specialist CAMHS at the Maudsley. This NHS work with sixth formers makes me ideally suited to working with clients as they navigate academic, professional, social, and emotional crossroads.
020 7046 0291 View 020 7046 0291
Dr Elrika Erasmus
Psychologist, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Using approaches like Compassion-Focused Therapy, ACT, and coaching, I’ll help you uncover your strengths, reduce anxiety, and build confidence to create meaningful, lasting change.
Life is so beautiful, and life is so hard. Maybe, for you, it feels especially hard right now. On the outside, you might appear fine, but inside, you’re overwhelmed. Anxiety, overthinking, or self-doubt could be holding you back, making it hard to focus or set goals. Sleep may feel impossible, leaving you exhausted and unmotivated. You want clarity, calm, and to reconnect with what matters most. You’re ready for change, even if you’re unsure where to start.
Using approaches like Compassion-Focused Therapy, ACT, and coaching, I’ll help you uncover your strengths, reduce anxiety, and build confidence to create meaningful, lasting change.
Life is so beautiful, and life is so hard. Maybe, for you, it feels especially hard right now. On the outside, you might appear fine, but inside, you’re overwhelmed. Anxiety, overthinking, or self-doubt could be holding you back, making it hard to focus or set goals. Sleep may feel impossible, leaving you exhausted and unmotivated. You want clarity, calm, and to reconnect with what matters most. You’re ready for change, even if you’re unsure where to start.
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I am an experienced Clinical Psychologist, registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). I have worked for the NHS since 1999 as a qualified Clinical Psychologist, within a London specialist service for people with severe mental health difficulties. I have gained a wealth of experience working with the complex needs of service users, from the ages of 19 years to their early 60s, in a wide range of care settings. I have a special interest in working with trauma and am an Accredited EMDR therapist.
I am an experienced Clinical Psychologist, registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). I have worked for the NHS since 1999 as a qualified Clinical Psychologist, within a London specialist service for people with severe mental health difficulties. I have gained a wealth of experience working with the complex needs of service users, from the ages of 19 years to their early 60s, in a wide range of care settings. I have a special interest in working with trauma and am an Accredited EMDR therapist.
01279 744894 View 01279 744894
Alex (Alexandra) Macfarlane
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Reaching out is a powerful act of commitment to yourself, and those that surround you.
Individual & couple’s counsellor. Do you feel stuck in an unhealthy place in your relationship or life? If so, with supportive counselling, both individuals can start to feel heard & understood. Together the couple can start to shape their future with the goals &values they want for their relationship. I also work with individuals suffering with anxiety or depression. As a compassionate, experienced counsellor, I provide a space where you can talk openly about what you’re going through. Together, we’ll explore the patterns, thoughts, & emotion that may be holding you back & work toward ways to restore balance & connection in life.
Reaching out is a powerful act of commitment to yourself, and those that surround you.
Individual & couple’s counsellor. Do you feel stuck in an unhealthy place in your relationship or life? If so, with supportive counselling, both individuals can start to feel heard & understood. Together the couple can start to shape their future with the goals &values they want for their relationship. I also work with individuals suffering with anxiety or depression. As a compassionate, experienced counsellor, I provide a space where you can talk openly about what you’re going through. Together, we’ll explore the patterns, thoughts, & emotion that may be holding you back & work toward ways to restore balance & connection in life.
01279 744401 View 01279 744401
Hello I am Paula and my aim is to make professional counselling accessible, affordable and convenient - so anyone who struggles with life's challenges can get help. Depression, anxiety, stress, overwhelmed are words we all hear on a daily basis when generally chatting to family, friends or work colleagues . Counselling can help us cope with those over consuming feelings. Sadly we cannot avoid trauma happening but seeking help during the trauma or even months, years later may reduce risk to further illnesses that have been linked to psychological trauma. Are you in an abusive relationship or having issues as a couple?
Hello I am Paula and my aim is to make professional counselling accessible, affordable and convenient - so anyone who struggles with life's challenges can get help. Depression, anxiety, stress, overwhelmed are words we all hear on a daily basis when generally chatting to family, friends or work colleagues . Counselling can help us cope with those over consuming feelings. Sadly we cannot avoid trauma happening but seeking help during the trauma or even months, years later may reduce risk to further illnesses that have been linked to psychological trauma. Are you in an abusive relationship or having issues as a couple?
07480 534624 View 07480 534624
Amber Ingle
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Online Only
My name is Amber and I am a qualified and BABCP accredited CBT & ACT therapist.
As a dedicated psychotherapist, I am committed to learning as much as possible about child and adult mental health and the human mind, in order to provide high-quality therapy to my clients. For over a decade I have used a mixture of CBT and ACT to support clients at all stages of life, from school age and throughout the various challenges of adulthood.
My name is Amber and I am a qualified and BABCP accredited CBT & ACT therapist.
As a dedicated psychotherapist, I am committed to learning as much as possible about child and adult mental health and the human mind, in order to provide high-quality therapy to my clients. For over a decade I have used a mixture of CBT and ACT to support clients at all stages of life, from school age and throughout the various challenges of adulthood.
01279 969204 View 01279 969204
Sandra Ross-Cameron
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Serves Area
For the last 12yrs also, specialising in ACT therapy, which is a third wave CBT approach.
The 3 C’s in life, Choice,Chance, Change. You can chose to make the choice, to take the chance, if you want anything in life to change.I am here to help, support and aid you with any difficulties you maybe having. Be that with any anxiety, depression. Phobias, OCD, relationships, complex issues. My aim is to get you unstuck and to help you move forward in your chosen life direction.
For the last 12yrs also, specialising in ACT therapy, which is a third wave CBT approach.
The 3 C’s in life, Choice,Chance, Change. You can chose to make the choice, to take the chance, if you want anything in life to change.I am here to help, support and aid you with any difficulties you maybe having. Be that with any anxiety, depression. Phobias, OCD, relationships, complex issues. My aim is to get you unstuck and to help you move forward in your chosen life direction.
01279 969925 View 01279 969925
Liz White
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Serves Area
I use cognitive behaviour therapy, acceptance & commitment therapy and compassion focused therapy flexibly to help each client’s unique life circumstances.
Tired of overthinking, feeling anxious or trying to manage OCD on your own? I am a highly qualified and experienced Chartered Consultant Clinical Psychologist who specialises in helping people break free from anxious and obsessive patterns. I have experience of helping people with all types of OCD, particularly relationship OCD, contamination OCD and taboo themes.
I use cognitive behaviour therapy, acceptance & commitment therapy and compassion focused therapy flexibly to help each client’s unique life circumstances.
Tired of overthinking, feeling anxious or trying to manage OCD on your own? I am a highly qualified and experienced Chartered Consultant Clinical Psychologist who specialises in helping people break free from anxious and obsessive patterns. I have experience of helping people with all types of OCD, particularly relationship OCD, contamination OCD and taboo themes.
01992 351093 View 01992 351093
Dr Catriona Amberton
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I am an HCPC and BPS registered psychologist and have 14 years of NHS experience. In addition to my doctorate, I have a Masters in Clinical Forensic Psychology and conduct expert witness work for the courts. I have extensive experience and knowledge across the lifespan but primarily work with children, adolescents, parents and families. I have particular expertise with neurodivergence and regularly carry out assessments and provide support for difficulties associated with Autism and ADHD. I also work part-time for the NHS as the lead psychologist for West Essex Community Paediatrics Autism diagnostic pathway.
I am an HCPC and BPS registered psychologist and have 14 years of NHS experience. In addition to my doctorate, I have a Masters in Clinical Forensic Psychology and conduct expert witness work for the courts. I have extensive experience and knowledge across the lifespan but primarily work with children, adolescents, parents and families. I have particular expertise with neurodivergence and regularly carry out assessments and provide support for difficulties associated with Autism and ADHD. I also work part-time for the NHS as the lead psychologist for West Essex Community Paediatrics Autism diagnostic pathway.
01707 244841 View 01707 244841
Agnieszka Agata Waclawik
Psychotherapist, MA, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Life can feel overwhelming when grief, anxiety, trauma, or repeating patterns leave you feeling stuck. I work in a trauma-informed way and have completed EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) Module 1 and Module 2 training, enabling me to offer EMDR for distressing memories and emotional triggers. As a pluralistic psychotherapist, I draw on Person-Centred, Psychodynamic, CBT, Gestalt, and Transactional Analysis to tailor therapy to you. I provide a safe, confidential, and non-judgemental space where you can feel truly heard, supported, and able to move toward meaningful change.
Life can feel overwhelming when grief, anxiety, trauma, or repeating patterns leave you feeling stuck. I work in a trauma-informed way and have completed EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) Module 1 and Module 2 training, enabling me to offer EMDR for distressing memories and emotional triggers. As a pluralistic psychotherapist, I draw on Person-Centred, Psychodynamic, CBT, Gestalt, and Transactional Analysis to tailor therapy to you. I provide a safe, confidential, and non-judgemental space where you can feel truly heard, supported, and able to move toward meaningful change.
01371 701971 View 01371 701971
New waves CBT
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Serves Area
I have 30 years working in mental health. I use CBT to help people with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). I conduct ADHD assessment and diagnosis working with a Consultant Psychiatrist. I have specializations in OCD and Trauma. I work addictions, anxiety, low self esteem and mood problems. I use other modalities such as compassion focused therapy; meta cognitive therapy, rationale emotive therapy to name some. I am the creator and developer of a CBT approach called the General Meta Formulation.
I have 30 years working in mental health. I use CBT to help people with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). I conduct ADHD assessment and diagnosis working with a Consultant Psychiatrist. I have specializations in OCD and Trauma. I work addictions, anxiety, low self esteem and mood problems. I use other modalities such as compassion focused therapy; meta cognitive therapy, rationale emotive therapy to name some. I am the creator and developer of a CBT approach called the General Meta Formulation.
01223 658327 View 01223 658327
Katy Hepburn
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
01279 598241 View 01279 598241

More Therapists Nearby

Dr Thomas Italiano
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
London E14
I integrate evidence-based therapies such as CBT, ACT, and CFT, alongside body-focused methods like EMDR and Brainspotting to address trauma and stress on a deeper, physiological level.
Well into the 21st century, life is faster and, in many ways, “easier”—the world is a click away. Yet, expectations have multiplied. We’re supposed to be efficient, confident, independent, yet also connected, relaxed, and free. These contradictions can leave us feeling tense, confused, or dissatisfied, making it challenging to navigate life’s uncertainties. Amid this, we juggle relationships, family, work, and friendships—sometimes to the point where the struggle feels overwhelming. Challenges may manifest as anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma, or simply a sense of exhaustion, burnout, or feeling lost.
I integrate evidence-based therapies such as CBT, ACT, and CFT, alongside body-focused methods like EMDR and Brainspotting to address trauma and stress on a deeper, physiological level.
Well into the 21st century, life is faster and, in many ways, “easier”—the world is a click away. Yet, expectations have multiplied. We’re supposed to be efficient, confident, independent, yet also connected, relaxed, and free. These contradictions can leave us feeling tense, confused, or dissatisfied, making it challenging to navigate life’s uncertainties. Amid this, we juggle relationships, family, work, and friendships—sometimes to the point where the struggle feels overwhelming. Challenges may manifest as anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma, or simply a sense of exhaustion, burnout, or feeling lost.
020 3984 8085 View 020 3984 8085
Dr Amna Salman
Psychologist, HCPC - Forensic Psych.
Online Only
Life is a beautiful challenge. We all face adversity in life, whether this manifests as mental or physical illness, trauma, or difficulty coping with day to day experiences. Therapy is not just about treatment or addressing mental illness, it is a tool that we can all use to develop a better understanding of ourselves and our individual lived experience, and to reconnect with the joy in our lives. Therapy can help us identify thinking and behaviour patterns, address past and present traumas, cope with everyday fears and anxieties, and learn ways to better relate to and understand ourselves, our environments, and other people.
Life is a beautiful challenge. We all face adversity in life, whether this manifests as mental or physical illness, trauma, or difficulty coping with day to day experiences. Therapy is not just about treatment or addressing mental illness, it is a tool that we can all use to develop a better understanding of ourselves and our individual lived experience, and to reconnect with the joy in our lives. Therapy can help us identify thinking and behaviour patterns, address past and present traumas, cope with everyday fears and anxieties, and learn ways to better relate to and understand ourselves, our environments, and other people.
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Paola Filotico
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Online Only
I integrate tools from different schools, in particular CBT and ACT, Psychodynamic and Attachment-based therapy, to explore problems, and then tailor the intervention to the person I have in front of me, their specific context and challenges.
Whatever the reason that brought you here, I imagine it was not an easy journey. At times we feel estranged from ourselves, and this spills over into our outward-facing life; other times a major change or loss comes into our life and we struggle to cope. We might experience dark thoughts and feelings, find them disturbing, and start believing there is something wrong with us. In therapy, we look at these parts of life: what is scary when faced alone can become bearable when it is understood together. Over time, we can come to see that life has many layers, and that difficult emotions are a natural part of being human.
I integrate tools from different schools, in particular CBT and ACT, Psychodynamic and Attachment-based therapy, to explore problems, and then tailor the intervention to the person I have in front of me, their specific context and challenges.
Whatever the reason that brought you here, I imagine it was not an easy journey. At times we feel estranged from ourselves, and this spills over into our outward-facing life; other times a major change or loss comes into our life and we struggle to cope. We might experience dark thoughts and feelings, find them disturbing, and start believing there is something wrong with us. In therapy, we look at these parts of life: what is scary when faced alone can become bearable when it is understood together. Over time, we can come to see that life has many layers, and that difficult emotions are a natural part of being human.
020 8059 8389 View 020 8059 8389
Dr. Kanchi Gunaratna
Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
Online Only
Take an integrative approach, drawing on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT),Compassion Focused Therapy-Compassionate Mind Training.
I am a HCPC Registered Chartered Psychologist and an Associate Fellow of the British Psychological Society (BPS). I have a breadth and depth of experience in the principles of Psychology spanning 30 plus years. I treat a wide range of psychological difficulties including long term conditions. I aim to make the therapeutic arena a safe and comfortable space so that you feel able to share difficult and challenging issues. My goal is to empower you with skills and techniques enabling you to move forward in life, and to maintain progress after therapy is completed.
Take an integrative approach, drawing on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT),Compassion Focused Therapy-Compassionate Mind Training.
I am a HCPC Registered Chartered Psychologist and an Associate Fellow of the British Psychological Society (BPS). I have a breadth and depth of experience in the principles of Psychology spanning 30 plus years. I treat a wide range of psychological difficulties including long term conditions. I aim to make the therapeutic arena a safe and comfortable space so that you feel able to share difficult and challenging issues. My goal is to empower you with skills and techniques enabling you to move forward in life, and to maintain progress after therapy is completed.
020 8106 2173 View 020 8106 2173
Dr Suman Prinjha
Psychotherapist, PhD, MBACP
Shefford SG17
I specialise in anxiety, depression, relationship issues, cultural issues, work-related stress, and living with illness. We all face times when we feel confused, stuck or unsure about what to do. During these difficult or uncertain times talking to someone who listens, yet has distance from the issue, can really help. Asking for support is not a sign of weakness. It takes courage to focus on ourselves so that we can find solutions, make changes, and move forwards. I offer compassionate, non-judgmental, confidential yet proactive therapy in a safe and supportive space. I work in the evenings and weekends.
I specialise in anxiety, depression, relationship issues, cultural issues, work-related stress, and living with illness. We all face times when we feel confused, stuck or unsure about what to do. During these difficult or uncertain times talking to someone who listens, yet has distance from the issue, can really help. Asking for support is not a sign of weakness. It takes courage to focus on ourselves so that we can find solutions, make changes, and move forwards. I offer compassionate, non-judgmental, confidential yet proactive therapy in a safe and supportive space. I work in the evenings and weekends.
01767 660654 View 01767 660654
Nicolas Burden
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
London WC1A
I integrate CBT, ACT & CFT.
I’m a Clinical Psychologist with 15 years of experience. I maintain an open-minded, warm and non-judgmental approach to the struggles that people have. I aim to make my clients feel safe and work hard to establish a strong therapeutic relationship, knowing that this is crucial in supporting people to make important changes. I work with adults, couples and families and those struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship strain, family strain, stress, trauma & low self-esteem. I have specialised expertise in working with LGBTQ+ communities, Gay Men and relationship diversity (GSRD).
I integrate CBT, ACT & CFT.
I’m a Clinical Psychologist with 15 years of experience. I maintain an open-minded, warm and non-judgmental approach to the struggles that people have. I aim to make my clients feel safe and work hard to establish a strong therapeutic relationship, knowing that this is crucial in supporting people to make important changes. I work with adults, couples and families and those struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship strain, family strain, stress, trauma & low self-esteem. I have specialised expertise in working with LGBTQ+ communities, Gay Men and relationship diversity (GSRD).
020 3667 9906 View 020 3667 9906

See more therapy options for Bishop's Stortford

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.