Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Counselling in Brighton

Photo of Dr Nikki Pitman, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Nikki Pitman
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
My ideal client is someone who’s been through difficult or overwhelming experiences—whether trauma, health challenges, or long-term stress. They want to feel more like themselves again and explore what may have led to their current experiences. They’re ready to make sense of what’s happened and move forward with greater confidence and ease. They’re looking for a warm, supportive and flexible space to grow, and build a more balanced, meaningful life.
My ideal client is someone who’s been through difficult or overwhelming experiences—whether trauma, health challenges, or long-term stress. They want to feel more like themselves again and explore what may have led to their current experiences. They’re ready to make sense of what’s happened and move forward with greater confidence and ease. They’re looking for a warm, supportive and flexible space to grow, and build a more balanced, meaningful life.
01273 092938 View 01273 092938
Photo of Sarah Eva - Valley Therapy, Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Valley Therapy
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Hello. I am Sarah Eva. I am an experienced psychotherapist and an accredited EMDR practitioner and consultant (supervisor). I am a qualified CBT therapist and have completed training in Internal Family Systems (IFS) Levels 1 and 2. I provide safe and confidential therapy services to adults and adolescents (16+) for a range of presenting difficulties, from depression and anxiety, including OCD, to childhood trauma, including sexual abuse and complex PTSD. I have a clinic in Brighton, UK and offer online therapy sessions. I am accredited with BACP and EMDR UK.
Hello. I am Sarah Eva. I am an experienced psychotherapist and an accredited EMDR practitioner and consultant (supervisor). I am a qualified CBT therapist and have completed training in Internal Family Systems (IFS) Levels 1 and 2. I provide safe and confidential therapy services to adults and adolescents (16+) for a range of presenting difficulties, from depression and anxiety, including OCD, to childhood trauma, including sexual abuse and complex PTSD. I have a clinic in Brighton, UK and offer online therapy sessions. I am accredited with BACP and EMDR UK.
01892 335343 View 01892 335343
Photo of Tania Vaughan, Counsellor, MBACP
Tania Vaughan
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
My role is to walk alongside you with compassion and acceptance, supporting you as you make sense of your experiences and move toward healing and growth.
I work in a trauma-informed way, recognising how past and present experiences shape how we feel, think, and relate. I specialise in anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, life transitions, and critical illness. My integrative humanistic approach tailors therapy to your needs, helping you gain clarity and create meaningful change safely and at your pace.
My role is to walk alongside you with compassion and acceptance, supporting you as you make sense of your experiences and move toward healing and growth.
I work in a trauma-informed way, recognising how past and present experiences shape how we feel, think, and relate. I specialise in anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, life transitions, and critical illness. My integrative humanistic approach tailors therapy to your needs, helping you gain clarity and create meaningful change safely and at your pace.
01273 092096 View 01273 092096
Photo of Mark Denson, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Mark Denson
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
I offer a warm, confidential and non-judgemental space where you can talk openly and feel supported as we explore the difficulties you're facing. You may feel anxious, overwhelmed, low, or not sure where to begin — and that’s completely okay. You don’t need to have everything figured out. We can explore whatever you’re bringing gently, safely, and at your pace. You are invited to bring all parts of yourself — even those that may feel messy, difficult or hidden. You are welcome to express what may feel unsayable or unthinkable to you. Together, we’ll explore the experiences, patterns, and beliefs that shape your life.
I offer a warm, confidential and non-judgemental space where you can talk openly and feel supported as we explore the difficulties you're facing. You may feel anxious, overwhelmed, low, or not sure where to begin — and that’s completely okay. You don’t need to have everything figured out. We can explore whatever you’re bringing gently, safely, and at your pace. You are invited to bring all parts of yourself — even those that may feel messy, difficult or hidden. You are welcome to express what may feel unsayable or unthinkable to you. Together, we’ll explore the experiences, patterns, and beliefs that shape your life.
01273 934310 View 01273 934310
Photo of Timothy Park, Counsellor, MBACP
Timothy Park
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
You can trust that I will always act in your best interest, respect your autonomy, and that I will maintain the confidentiality of our work together.
Hi, I’m Tim and I can help if you struggle with addictions, relationship issues, anxiety, depression or ADHD. My approach is rooted in the understanding that you have the capacity to change and that therapy is an important part of this process. I offer an empathic, authentic and non-judgemental space that focuses on you achieving your therapy goals.
You can trust that I will always act in your best interest, respect your autonomy, and that I will maintain the confidentiality of our work together.
Hi, I’m Tim and I can help if you struggle with addictions, relationship issues, anxiety, depression or ADHD. My approach is rooted in the understanding that you have the capacity to change and that therapy is an important part of this process. I offer an empathic, authentic and non-judgemental space that focuses on you achieving your therapy goals.
01273 121315 View 01273 121315
Photo of Martin Quigley, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Martin Quigley
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Hello, my name is Martin, I am a BABCP Accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist and EMDR Practitioner. For the past 10 years I have been working as a CBT Therapist with the NHS & BUPA specialising in working with Depression & Anxiety Conditions. I hold a particular interest in working with clients presenting with Low Mood/Low Self Esteem and General Anxiety. I have also recently completed training in EMDR and hold a particular interest in the treatment of Trauma/PTSD. I am currently accepting new referrals and taking on new clients.
Hello, my name is Martin, I am a BABCP Accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist and EMDR Practitioner. For the past 10 years I have been working as a CBT Therapist with the NHS & BUPA specialising in working with Depression & Anxiety Conditions. I hold a particular interest in working with clients presenting with Low Mood/Low Self Esteem and General Anxiety. I have also recently completed training in EMDR and hold a particular interest in the treatment of Trauma/PTSD. I am currently accepting new referrals and taking on new clients.
01273 092895 View 01273 092895
Photo of Natalie Pepper, Counsellor, MBACP
Natalie Pepper
Counsellor, MBACP
Hello and welcome! Taking the first step on your counselling journey can often be the hardest, but you are here so you’ve done it! People often seek out counselling for a specific need, but it may be that you are unsure why you are feeling a certain way. Exploring your thoughts and feelings through talking therapy can help.
Hello and welcome! Taking the first step on your counselling journey can often be the hardest, but you are here so you’ve done it! People often seek out counselling for a specific need, but it may be that you are unsure why you are feeling a certain way. Exploring your thoughts and feelings through talking therapy can help.
020 4634 7397 View 020 4634 7397
Photo of Dr Anna Chiara Sicilia, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Anna Chiara Sicilia
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
I am Anna, a Chartered Clinical Psychologist, Clinical Supervisor and Consultant for the TV, Media and Radio. I have worked in the NHS in mental health services since 2014, specialising in supporting working age adults presenting with a range of difficulties. I am able to support both individuals and couples. I specialise in supporting people from the LGBTQI+ community and creative professionals. As a person from the LGBTQI+ community, with a background of having grown up in the fashion world in Italy, I have an ability to create a non-judgmental space where safe exploration of different aspects of your identity is encouraged.
I am Anna, a Chartered Clinical Psychologist, Clinical Supervisor and Consultant for the TV, Media and Radio. I have worked in the NHS in mental health services since 2014, specialising in supporting working age adults presenting with a range of difficulties. I am able to support both individuals and couples. I specialise in supporting people from the LGBTQI+ community and creative professionals. As a person from the LGBTQI+ community, with a background of having grown up in the fashion world in Italy, I have an ability to create a non-judgmental space where safe exploration of different aspects of your identity is encouraged.
01273 034687 View 01273 034687
Photo of Netti Buswell - Netti Buswell Therapy, Counsellor, MBACP
Netti Buswell Therapy
Counsellor, MBACP
Online Only
We all need help at different times in our lives for a variety of reasons. Sometimes talking to our loved ones or friends is either not possible or feels uncomfortable. Working with me would mean being able to speak freely in a safe environment. My work with you would be based on developing a therapeutic, supportive and healthy relationship, giving you the opportunity to explore your issues, find inner strength and confidence, reach your goals and find ways to experience a much more satisfying, healthier and meaningful life in the future. Taking this journey with me offers you a non-judgemental, empathic and respectful space.
We all need help at different times in our lives for a variety of reasons. Sometimes talking to our loved ones or friends is either not possible or feels uncomfortable. Working with me would mean being able to speak freely in a safe environment. My work with you would be based on developing a therapeutic, supportive and healthy relationship, giving you the opportunity to explore your issues, find inner strength and confidence, reach your goals and find ways to experience a much more satisfying, healthier and meaningful life in the future. Taking this journey with me offers you a non-judgemental, empathic and respectful space.
01273 037850 View 01273 037850
Photo of Clea Alber, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Clea Alber
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Do you need specialist help with anxiety, stress or mood probIems? I have practised as a BABCP accredited Cognitive Behaviour Therapist and Supervisor for over twenty years and draw on my wide-ranging experience and training to determine the best approach to suit your individual needs and situation so that I can help you improve your life. As a CBT Therapist I will aim to not only help you understand your difficulties, but to actively make changes, using evidence-based therapeutic interventions within a warm and non-judgmental relationship.
Do you need specialist help with anxiety, stress or mood probIems? I have practised as a BABCP accredited Cognitive Behaviour Therapist and Supervisor for over twenty years and draw on my wide-ranging experience and training to determine the best approach to suit your individual needs and situation so that I can help you improve your life. As a CBT Therapist I will aim to not only help you understand your difficulties, but to actively make changes, using evidence-based therapeutic interventions within a warm and non-judgmental relationship.
07979 541466 View 07979 541466
Photo of Charlotte Ricca, Psychologist, MSc, GMBPsS
Charlotte Ricca
Psychologist, MSc, GMBPsS
Online 'shopping' for a therapist can be tough. I know, I've done it. Scrolling through faces and bios. So why me? I love my job and I love to share what I have learned over the years. My approach is direct, yet compassionate and practical but evidence based. I don't do 'therapy' talk, I do 'human' talk. I also do a lot of listening. Our sessions are a chance for you to fully be yourself - with no judgement - or to find out who you really are. Together we will explore the barriers holding you back - and slowly break them down, so that you can start living right now, instead of waiting for that perfect version of you to turn up.
Online 'shopping' for a therapist can be tough. I know, I've done it. Scrolling through faces and bios. So why me? I love my job and I love to share what I have learned over the years. My approach is direct, yet compassionate and practical but evidence based. I don't do 'therapy' talk, I do 'human' talk. I also do a lot of listening. Our sessions are a chance for you to fully be yourself - with no judgement - or to find out who you really are. Together we will explore the barriers holding you back - and slowly break them down, so that you can start living right now, instead of waiting for that perfect version of you to turn up.
01273 110184 View 01273 110184
Photo of Dr Sophie Ann Bafunno-Clifton, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Sophie Ann Bafunno-Clifton
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
I take an eclectic approach to therapy, drawing on multiple psychological theories (e.g. CBT, ACT, CFT, CAT, psycho-dynamic approaches) to build an individualised and holistic approach, empowering each individual to embark on recovery and achieve their therapeutic goals.
I believe in taking a genuine empathic and non-judgmental approach to others, which contributes to the building of positive, trusting relationships that are central to therapy. I also believe each person, and their difficulties, deserves a psychological approach tailored to their own, personal experience and preferences.
I take an eclectic approach to therapy, drawing on multiple psychological theories (e.g. CBT, ACT, CFT, CAT, psycho-dynamic approaches) to build an individualised and holistic approach, empowering each individual to embark on recovery and achieve their therapeutic goals.
I believe in taking a genuine empathic and non-judgmental approach to others, which contributes to the building of positive, trusting relationships that are central to therapy. I also believe each person, and their difficulties, deserves a psychological approach tailored to their own, personal experience and preferences.
01273 092145 View 01273 092145
Photo of Susie Cabrillana, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Susie Cabrillana
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Often people find it hard to talk about their feelings at this time, when there are so many pressures arising from being told how you 'ought' to feel, act or behave.
I offer a unique perspective and understanding of the  difficulties that can arise in relation to perinatal experiences (pregnancy, birth & beyond) . I can help with difficulties like anxiety & panic, PTSD, depression, postpartum psychosis, OCD, phobias and tokophobia - fear of pregnancy/birth - and trauma (earlier life or birth trauma) & pregnancy loss.
Often people find it hard to talk about their feelings at this time, when there are so many pressures arising from being told how you 'ought' to feel, act or behave.
I offer a unique perspective and understanding of the  difficulties that can arise in relation to perinatal experiences (pregnancy, birth & beyond) . I can help with difficulties like anxiety & panic, PTSD, depression, postpartum psychosis, OCD, phobias and tokophobia - fear of pregnancy/birth - and trauma (earlier life or birth trauma) & pregnancy loss.
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Photo of Chris People, Psychotherapist
Chris People
Psychotherapist
My approach integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Hypnotherapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Mindfulness practice, and Compassion-focused techniques.
Struggling with stress, anxiety, or unhelpful habits? Let's work together to find clarity and calm. I'm Chris, a Brighton-based Integrated Therapist offering evidence-based, jargon-free support for individuals facing challenges like stress, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and motivation issues. Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain about the next steps, I'm here to help you navigate through.
My approach integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Hypnotherapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Mindfulness practice, and Compassion-focused techniques.
Struggling with stress, anxiety, or unhelpful habits? Let's work together to find clarity and calm. I'm Chris, a Brighton-based Integrated Therapist offering evidence-based, jargon-free support for individuals facing challenges like stress, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and motivation issues. Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain about the next steps, I'm here to help you navigate through.
07914 571616 View 07914 571616
Photo of Louise Durant, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Louise Durant
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Online Only
As a Clinical Psychologist with 12 years NHS experience and additional specialist training in EMDR, Compassion-Focused Therapy and Systemic practice and CAT, I am able to use a range of evidence-based approaches which I use flexibly to ensure I best meet your needs and preferred way of working. I work in NHS adult mental health services, specialising in supporting individuals and their families/carers who are navigating complex mental health challenges and life's different stages and challenges, alongside neurodivergence. I can help by offering...
As a Clinical Psychologist with 12 years NHS experience and additional specialist training in EMDR, Compassion-Focused Therapy and Systemic practice and CAT, I am able to use a range of evidence-based approaches which I use flexibly to ensure I best meet your needs and preferred way of working. I work in NHS adult mental health services, specialising in supporting individuals and their families/carers who are navigating complex mental health challenges and life's different stages and challenges, alongside neurodivergence. I can help by offering...
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Photo of Richard Gilpin, Psychotherapist, MA, MBABCP
Richard Gilpin
Psychotherapist, MA, MBABCP
Waitlist for new clients
Do you need specialist help with anxiety, stress, depression or other issues affecting your self-esteem? I am a BABCP-accredited CBT therapist and also an experienced counsellor. I have worked in public, private and third sectors, including as a staff therapist in several NHS services. I have years of experience working with people on a wide range of common problems/issues such as: stress, depression, anxiety, worry, health and illness fears, body image issues, OCD, sleep problems, PTSD, anger and irritability, and ADHD. I offer friendly, non-judgemental support and an unbiased ear in a safe, confidential environment.
Do you need specialist help with anxiety, stress, depression or other issues affecting your self-esteem? I am a BABCP-accredited CBT therapist and also an experienced counsellor. I have worked in public, private and third sectors, including as a staff therapist in several NHS services. I have years of experience working with people on a wide range of common problems/issues such as: stress, depression, anxiety, worry, health and illness fears, body image issues, OCD, sleep problems, PTSD, anger and irritability, and ADHD. I offer friendly, non-judgemental support and an unbiased ear in a safe, confidential environment.
01273 110276 View 01273 110276
Photo of Will Geffin, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Will Geffin
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
CBT (REBT) to identify core beliefs, EMDR, IFS, AEDP & ACT to address thoughts & feelings & to move towards living a meaningful, flourishing life, being the person you want to be.
I offer therapy & counselling to help people to deal with, change or accept unhelpful, disturbing thoughts, feelings & behaviours & deal with recent or long-held problems. The good news is, it's possible to change & live a better, more fulfilling life. I help with depression & low mood, anxiety/performance anxiety, stress & panic, relationship problems, anger, low self-esteem, bereavement, health/body issues, post-traumatic stress disorder & obsessive, compulsive behaviour. I work with young adults & older adults & also specialise in working with artists, performers & those in the creative industries. I offer concessions. Please ask
CBT (REBT) to identify core beliefs, EMDR, IFS, AEDP & ACT to address thoughts & feelings & to move towards living a meaningful, flourishing life, being the person you want to be.
I offer therapy & counselling to help people to deal with, change or accept unhelpful, disturbing thoughts, feelings & behaviours & deal with recent or long-held problems. The good news is, it's possible to change & live a better, more fulfilling life. I help with depression & low mood, anxiety/performance anxiety, stress & panic, relationship problems, anger, low self-esteem, bereavement, health/body issues, post-traumatic stress disorder & obsessive, compulsive behaviour. I work with young adults & older adults & also specialise in working with artists, performers & those in the creative industries. I offer concessions. Please ask
01273 032543 View 01273 032543
Photo of Fiona Macbeth, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Fiona Macbeth
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
I can help you with whatever is distressing you in your life whether it be anxiety fuelled by the current circumstances or something longer standing. have worked with hundreds of clients on a wide range of issues, and I am also experienced in the field of eating disorders. Contact me for a free online assessment, share what is troubling you and identify what you want to change. I can work short term for around six sessions, or longer term if required. I offer face to face counselling in my or online, and I specialise in working with performers, actors, musicials and dancers having previously run the college counselling service .
I can help you with whatever is distressing you in your life whether it be anxiety fuelled by the current circumstances or something longer standing. have worked with hundreds of clients on a wide range of issues, and I am also experienced in the field of eating disorders. Contact me for a free online assessment, share what is troubling you and identify what you want to change. I can work short term for around six sessions, or longer term if required. I offer face to face counselling in my or online, and I specialise in working with performers, actors, musicials and dancers having previously run the college counselling service .
01273 121249 View 01273 121249
Photo of Catherine Pitfield, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Catherine Pitfield
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Hello, I’m Catherine and I’m a registered Clinical Psychologist, specialising in child and family work. I qualified with a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the University of East London in 2013, and have been working within the NHS, at Great Ormond Street Hospital, and privately with children and families since. I specialise in working with children and families to overcome difficulties and reach their preferred futures. I have expertise in working with children and families in Child and Adolescent Mental Health settings, Paediatrics and Schools.
Hello, I’m Catherine and I’m a registered Clinical Psychologist, specialising in child and family work. I qualified with a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the University of East London in 2013, and have been working within the NHS, at Great Ormond Street Hospital, and privately with children and families since. I specialise in working with children and families to overcome difficulties and reach their preferred futures. I have expertise in working with children and families in Child and Adolescent Mental Health settings, Paediatrics and Schools.
01273 036112 View 01273 036112
Photo of Candida Maltby, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Candida Maltby
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
I offer a pragmatic and human approach to psychological distress. I believe we all have times in our lives when we need to sit with another person and work out what is going on and how to move past it. I offer this with warmth, compassion and experience. My background is in physical health and I am able to offer a holistic approach to therapy. I have experience working with people who also have long-term physical health conditions, and am very aware of how these aspects interweave and impact on the person. I work with abuse issues and have experience working with domestic and sexual violence, to gain clarity and understanding.
I offer a pragmatic and human approach to psychological distress. I believe we all have times in our lives when we need to sit with another person and work out what is going on and how to move past it. I offer this with warmth, compassion and experience. My background is in physical health and I am able to offer a holistic approach to therapy. I have experience working with people who also have long-term physical health conditions, and am very aware of how these aspects interweave and impact on the person. I work with abuse issues and have experience working with domestic and sexual violence, to gain clarity and understanding.
01273 092158 View 01273 092158

See more therapy options for Brighton

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.