Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Counselling in Dorchester

Photo of Sharon Winward, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Sharon Winward
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Online Only
Since qualifying I have trained further in Eye Movement and Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and compassion based approaches.
In order to find an approach that works for you, we can start to make sense of your situation together, and find ways of making change for the better. We would work together collaboratively, to help you draw on your strengths, to allow you to move forward in your life, at your own pace, in your own time, and with support.
Since qualifying I have trained further in Eye Movement and Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and compassion based approaches.
In order to find an approach that works for you, we can start to make sense of your situation together, and find ways of making change for the better. We would work together collaboratively, to help you draw on your strengths, to allow you to move forward in your life, at your own pace, in your own time, and with support.
01305 232522 View 01305 232522
Photo of Gina Langley, Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Gina Langley
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
I have been trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), a logical extension of CBT.
Welcome! I am an HCPC Registered Counselling Psychologist and have been working as a therapist since 1995. I offer a range of ways to help you through a difficult time, tackle a chronic problem or help you realise your potential. I feel that counselling/psychotherapy shouldn't be intimidating but should help you explore and cope with the issues in your life. I have extensive experience of working with depression, anxiety, relationships and associated issues including loss, anger, and pain amongst others. I am qualified to assess and support ADHD in adults.
I have been trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), a logical extension of CBT.
Welcome! I am an HCPC Registered Counselling Psychologist and have been working as a therapist since 1995. I offer a range of ways to help you through a difficult time, tackle a chronic problem or help you realise your potential. I feel that counselling/psychotherapy shouldn't be intimidating but should help you explore and cope with the issues in your life. I have extensive experience of working with depression, anxiety, relationships and associated issues including loss, anger, and pain amongst others. I am qualified to assess and support ADHD in adults.
07480 784489 View 07480 784489
Photo of Rosie Freedman - Psychological Therapy in Practice - Dr Rosie, Psychologist, HCPC - Health Psych.
Psychological Therapy in Practice - Dr Rosie
Psychologist, HCPC - Health Psych.
Waitlist for new clients
Sometimes life can really get us down and it might seem difficult to see a way through. This could be due to: Feeling low, hopeless, lonely, or depressed * Feeling anxious or afraid * Suffering with stress at home and/or in the workplace * Suffering with a long term physical/ mental health condition * Experiencing relationship problems * Loss of a loved one through break-up, divorce, or death * Traumatic events in our past which are still troubling us and preventing us from moving forward * Wanting to change a behaviour (diet, exercise, smoking etc). I can help you to cope with, manage, and improve the issues you face.
Sometimes life can really get us down and it might seem difficult to see a way through. This could be due to: Feeling low, hopeless, lonely, or depressed * Feeling anxious or afraid * Suffering with stress at home and/or in the workplace * Suffering with a long term physical/ mental health condition * Experiencing relationship problems * Loss of a loved one through break-up, divorce, or death * Traumatic events in our past which are still troubling us and preventing us from moving forward * Wanting to change a behaviour (diet, exercise, smoking etc). I can help you to cope with, manage, and improve the issues you face.
07723 560186 View 07723 560186
Photo of Andrew Lewis-Smith, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Andrew Lewis-Smith
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Online Only
I am also trained in additional psychological therapies eg ACT/CFT/MBCT/Family Systems and elements may be integrated into our work.
Hello, I work with adults and over 16s. I offer specialist CBT for a range of issues including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, physical health issues, insomnia, low self-esteem, stress and changes in life circumstance's. My approach is tailored to an individuals age and particular needs. In the initial session we collaboratively decide the main issues, agree the type of therapy to use, develop preliminary goals and begin to identify strengths, personal qualities and challenges that you have already overcome. I have experienced anxiety, depression and stress giving me good insight into what you might be struggling with.
I am also trained in additional psychological therapies eg ACT/CFT/MBCT/Family Systems and elements may be integrated into our work.
Hello, I work with adults and over 16s. I offer specialist CBT for a range of issues including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, physical health issues, insomnia, low self-esteem, stress and changes in life circumstance's. My approach is tailored to an individuals age and particular needs. In the initial session we collaboratively decide the main issues, agree the type of therapy to use, develop preliminary goals and begin to identify strengths, personal qualities and challenges that you have already overcome. I have experienced anxiety, depression and stress giving me good insight into what you might be struggling with.
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Photo of Donna Harris, Counsellor, PhD, MBACP Accred
Donna Harris
Counsellor, PhD, MBACP Accred
I also integrate ACT, CBT (ERP is the gold standard for OCD) and TA but there is no space to spell out these acronyms in this box!
Whatever you are dealing with, I can help you to understand the causes of your troublesome emotions, thoughts and behaviours. We can then work on how to use that knowledge to feel mentally stable, with a renewed sense of control of your life and relationships. I have 14 years of experience working with, among other things: trauma, anxiety, panic, OCD, depression, grief, relationship issues and dealing with key life stages/changes e.g. divorce, menopause, retirement, work/home changes. Get in touch to book a free 30 min, no obligation, in-person, consultation to discuss your issues and how I might be able to help.
I also integrate ACT, CBT (ERP is the gold standard for OCD) and TA but there is no space to spell out these acronyms in this box!
Whatever you are dealing with, I can help you to understand the causes of your troublesome emotions, thoughts and behaviours. We can then work on how to use that knowledge to feel mentally stable, with a renewed sense of control of your life and relationships. I have 14 years of experience working with, among other things: trauma, anxiety, panic, OCD, depression, grief, relationship issues and dealing with key life stages/changes e.g. divorce, menopause, retirement, work/home changes. Get in touch to book a free 30 min, no obligation, in-person, consultation to discuss your issues and how I might be able to help.
01305 235855 View 01305 235855
Matt Williams
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Online Only
I am a qualified, HCPC-registered Clinical Psychologist with almost a decade's worth of experience of supporting people with a broad range of mental health issues. I've found that often, people feel stuck and confused, with questions of "why?" and "how?" when their mental health troubles them. Whether it be work or relationship stress; family issues; anxieties about health or socialising; trauma or depression, I’ve found people tend to get a better understanding of what’s bothering them when they figure it out with another person. Psychology calls this “formulation” and it gives us both a clearer path towards resolving the problem.
I am a qualified, HCPC-registered Clinical Psychologist with almost a decade's worth of experience of supporting people with a broad range of mental health issues. I've found that often, people feel stuck and confused, with questions of "why?" and "how?" when their mental health troubles them. Whether it be work or relationship stress; family issues; anxieties about health or socialising; trauma or depression, I’ve found people tend to get a better understanding of what’s bothering them when they figure it out with another person. Psychology calls this “formulation” and it gives us both a clearer path towards resolving the problem.
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Photo of Amanda Leather, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Forensic Psych.
Amanda Leather
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Forensic Psych.
Online Only
Knowing which therapy to choose can be a challenge, so in this situation I act as your co-pilot, you decide the direction I just let you know what might be the most effective route (as in which therapy).
Hi, I am a registered psychologist with the HCPC. I have worked in the NHS for over seventeen years including children and adolescents, adults, EIS (psychosis) and also prison mental health, so my experience is pretty varied. I believe that everybody is different and as such work to help develop an understanding of what is going on for you, before exploring what intervention is likely to be the most effective. I also complete ASC assessments as part of a multi disciplinary team adhering to NICE recommendations.
Knowing which therapy to choose can be a challenge, so in this situation I act as your co-pilot, you decide the direction I just let you know what might be the most effective route (as in which therapy).
Hi, I am a registered psychologist with the HCPC. I have worked in the NHS for over seventeen years including children and adolescents, adults, EIS (psychosis) and also prison mental health, so my experience is pretty varied. I believe that everybody is different and as such work to help develop an understanding of what is going on for you, before exploring what intervention is likely to be the most effective. I also complete ASC assessments as part of a multi disciplinary team adhering to NICE recommendations.
01202 125896 View 01202 125896
Photo of Adriana Taylor - Blossoming Hearts Play Therapy, Psychotherapist, PTUK
Blossoming Hearts Play Therapy
Psychotherapist, PTUK
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, my name is Adriana Taylor, I am a certified PTUK Play Therapist specializing in helping children express, heal and grow through play and creative activities. I believe that play is a child's natural language - a powerful way to make sense of their big feelings, life changes, difficult life experiences and challenges they can't put into words. I offer play therapy to children 4 to 12 years old. I create a safe, supportive and playful space where children can explore their emotions, build confidence, selfesteem and strenghten relationships with important people in their lives.
Hi, my name is Adriana Taylor, I am a certified PTUK Play Therapist specializing in helping children express, heal and grow through play and creative activities. I believe that play is a child's natural language - a powerful way to make sense of their big feelings, life changes, difficult life experiences and challenges they can't put into words. I offer play therapy to children 4 to 12 years old. I create a safe, supportive and playful space where children can explore their emotions, build confidence, selfesteem and strenghten relationships with important people in their lives.
01202 144666 View 01202 144666
Photo of Kasia Stankiewicz, Psychologist, MSc, CPsychol
Kasia Stankiewicz
Psychologist, MSc, CPsychol
Serves Area
I am trained in CBT, EMDR, TF-CBT, ACT.
I strongly believe that in order to provide the best possible psychological help there is a need to build tailored, high-quality programmes for each and every client. I offer a bespoke approach with a strong focus on discretion, privacy and confidentiality.
I am trained in CBT, EMDR, TF-CBT, ACT.
I strongly believe that in order to provide the best possible psychological help there is a need to build tailored, high-quality programmes for each and every client. I offer a bespoke approach with a strong focus on discretion, privacy and confidentiality.
01202 037409 View 01202 037409
Photo of Lindy Saunders, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Lindy Saunders
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
There are times in life when we feel overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck disconnected from ourselves or others — when our usual ways of coping no longer seem to help. You don’t have to face this alone. I offer a calm, compassionate space where you can talk openly and feel heard without judgment. As a compassionate, experienced integrative counsellor and psychotherapist, I draw on Systemic, Person-Centred, Psychodynamic, and CBT approaches to support understanding, bring hope, healing, and meaningful change.
There are times in life when we feel overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck disconnected from ourselves or others — when our usual ways of coping no longer seem to help. You don’t have to face this alone. I offer a calm, compassionate space where you can talk openly and feel heard without judgment. As a compassionate, experienced integrative counsellor and psychotherapist, I draw on Systemic, Person-Centred, Psychodynamic, and CBT approaches to support understanding, bring hope, healing, and meaningful change.
01258 444823 View 01258 444823
Photo of Dr Lynda Foulder- Hughes, PhD
Dr Lynda Foulder- Hughes
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
I am trained in a range of approaches including: CBT, EMDR, Flash EMDR Technique, Rewind, Humanistic Counselling, DBT, ACT, SFT, CFT, MI, Mindfulness and Meditation.
Qualifications: (2x PhDs) PhD Medicine-Child Health, PhD Transpersonal Counselling; masters degree MEd- Counselling for Health Professionals & Health Psychology; DipCOT(Occupational Therapy); BMsc, MSc -Metaphysical Sciences; Diplomas/ certificates in: CBT, EMDR; Practitioner certificate in EMDR, Advanced Flash Technique, DBT, Humanistic Counselling.
I am trained in a range of approaches including: CBT, EMDR, Flash EMDR Technique, Rewind, Humanistic Counselling, DBT, ACT, SFT, CFT, MI, Mindfulness and Meditation.
Qualifications: (2x PhDs) PhD Medicine-Child Health, PhD Transpersonal Counselling; masters degree MEd- Counselling for Health Professionals & Health Psychology; DipCOT(Occupational Therapy); BMsc, MSc -Metaphysical Sciences; Diplomas/ certificates in: CBT, EMDR; Practitioner certificate in EMDR, Advanced Flash Technique, DBT, Humanistic Counselling.
07380 327510 View 07380 327510

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tracy Ruth Ferrazzano, Counsellor, MBACP
Tracy Ruth Ferrazzano
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
I support adults and young people who are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from themselves. Many appear to be coping on the surface while carrying far more than others realise. You may be facing relationship challenges, grief, trauma, significant life transitions, or a lingering sense that something doesn’t feel quite right. Therapy provides a safe, supportive space to explore what’s happening, gain a deeper understanding of yourself, and move forward with greater clarity, confidence, and self-compassion.
I support adults and young people who are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from themselves. Many appear to be coping on the surface while carrying far more than others realise. You may be facing relationship challenges, grief, trauma, significant life transitions, or a lingering sense that something doesn’t feel quite right. Therapy provides a safe, supportive space to explore what’s happening, gain a deeper understanding of yourself, and move forward with greater clarity, confidence, and self-compassion.
01202 125218 View 01202 125218
Photo of Sam Cunnington - Sam Cunnington , Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Sam Cunnington
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Serves Area
I’m an accredited CBT therapist, integrating Compassion-Focused Therapy and ACT to help you relate differently to your thoughts and emotions, clarify values, and take meaningful action.
Feeling stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed & noticing it’s starting to affect the things that matter most? Many people come to therapy because stress, anxiety, or harsh self-criticism is beginning to impact work, relationships, hobbies, or daily life. Modern life doesn’t switch off, constant demands and busyness can leave you feeling consumed, drained, and stuck in patterns that used to help but now keep you suffering. On the outside, you may seem to be coping, yet inside it can feel like your thoughts are running in circles, your energy is low, and your sense of self-worth is affected. If this resonates, you are not alone
I’m an accredited CBT therapist, integrating Compassion-Focused Therapy and ACT to help you relate differently to your thoughts and emotions, clarify values, and take meaningful action.
Feeling stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed & noticing it’s starting to affect the things that matter most? Many people come to therapy because stress, anxiety, or harsh self-criticism is beginning to impact work, relationships, hobbies, or daily life. Modern life doesn’t switch off, constant demands and busyness can leave you feeling consumed, drained, and stuck in patterns that used to help but now keep you suffering. On the outside, you may seem to be coping, yet inside it can feel like your thoughts are running in circles, your energy is low, and your sense of self-worth is affected. If this resonates, you are not alone
01225 435172 View 01225 435172
Photo of Kam Gillar, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Kam Gillar
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Is there something in your life you want to change? Do you feel lost, unable to get on with your life? Are you looking to conquer a fear, break a habit, make a change in your life or simply want to manage the stresses of everyday living. Take a look at my website and make the first step in creating the positive changes you want in your life. Given the current COVID - 19 situation and also our busy lives and hectic schedules I offer confidential online therapy using Skype or Zoom. I am also seeing clients face to face both in my Reading and London locations.
Is there something in your life you want to change? Do you feel lost, unable to get on with your life? Are you looking to conquer a fear, break a habit, make a change in your life or simply want to manage the stresses of everyday living. Take a look at my website and make the first step in creating the positive changes you want in your life. Given the current COVID - 19 situation and also our busy lives and hectic schedules I offer confidential online therapy using Skype or Zoom. I am also seeing clients face to face both in my Reading and London locations.
0118 214 8648 View 0118 214 8648
Photo of Joanne Lee Hart, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Joanne Lee Hart
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Yeovil BA21
As a CBT therapist, I can support you in overcoming mental health and emotional challenges by helping you identify and reframe negative thought patterns and behaviours that are keeping you stuck. Together, we'll develop practical coping strategies tailored to your unique circumstances and goals that you can take away and be yours forever. By setting realistic objectives, we can create a clear path toward your desired outcomes, whether that’s reducing anxiety, improving self-esteem and mood, or managing stress. I am afraid I only accept referrals from individuals over the age of 17 years.
As a CBT therapist, I can support you in overcoming mental health and emotional challenges by helping you identify and reframe negative thought patterns and behaviours that are keeping you stuck. Together, we'll develop practical coping strategies tailored to your unique circumstances and goals that you can take away and be yours forever. By setting realistic objectives, we can create a clear path toward your desired outcomes, whether that’s reducing anxiety, improving self-esteem and mood, or managing stress. I am afraid I only accept referrals from individuals over the age of 17 years.
01935 312549 View 01935 312549
Photo of Dr Li-Faye Lim, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Li-Faye Lim
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Online Only
Do you keep coming back to the same problem, and struggle to get yourself out? Have you tried lots of different things and feel it’s time to reach out for professional help? Perhaps life has thrown challenge after challenge at you, and you are reaching your limit. Perhaps there has always been a problem you’ve suppressed, and you now feel it’s time to get help for it. Or you would like some time and space to explore your past. You could be seeking help for yourself, or it could be for a loved one or a child - they need help and you also want to know how to help them.
Do you keep coming back to the same problem, and struggle to get yourself out? Have you tried lots of different things and feel it’s time to reach out for professional help? Perhaps life has thrown challenge after challenge at you, and you are reaching your limit. Perhaps there has always been a problem you’ve suppressed, and you now feel it’s time to get help for it. Or you would like some time and space to explore your past. You could be seeking help for yourself, or it could be for a loved one or a child - they need help and you also want to know how to help them.
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Photo of Mai Kelly, Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Mai Kelly
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Poole BH13
My ideal client feels stuck—whether in their personal life, career, or relationships. They may be dealing with stress, anxiety, OCD, depression, or navigating family or couples dynamics. Some are professionals seeking balance or relief from overwhelming demands. They want practical, evidence-based solutions to move forward, find peace, and develop self-compassion. Their goals are feeling healthy, achieving growth, self-awareness, and balance, seeking transformation beyond coping. I love guiding clients through their journey, helping them find clarity and sustainable change as they thrive personally and professionally. Panta-rei.
My ideal client feels stuck—whether in their personal life, career, or relationships. They may be dealing with stress, anxiety, OCD, depression, or navigating family or couples dynamics. Some are professionals seeking balance or relief from overwhelming demands. They want practical, evidence-based solutions to move forward, find peace, and develop self-compassion. Their goals are feeling healthy, achieving growth, self-awareness, and balance, seeking transformation beyond coping. I love guiding clients through their journey, helping them find clarity and sustainable change as they thrive personally and professionally. Panta-rei.
020 4572 1671 View 020 4572 1671
Photo of Neil J Drew - The Poundbury Practice, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
The Poundbury Practice
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Our therapists are trained in a range of psychological therapy models, including talking therapies, CBT, CAT, ACT, EMDR.
A private psychology and therapy clinic in Poundbury, Dorchester, serving Dorset and beyond. Expert therapists for the public. We have a range of highly qualified counsellors, psychotherapists, and clinical psychologists with current availability. Sessions can be face to face in Poundbury or online via video. Feel free to get in touch today to find out more.
Our therapists are trained in a range of psychological therapy models, including talking therapies, CBT, CAT, ACT, EMDR.
A private psychology and therapy clinic in Poundbury, Dorchester, serving Dorset and beyond. Expert therapists for the public. We have a range of highly qualified counsellors, psychotherapists, and clinical psychologists with current availability. Sessions can be face to face in Poundbury or online via video. Feel free to get in touch today to find out more.
01305 239054 View 01305 239054
Photo of Sophia Chambers - Dr Sophia Chambers, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Sophia Chambers
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
3 Endorsed
Poole BH14
Waitlist for new clients
I draw on principles from a range of evidence-based psychological therapies including Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT).
I know reaching for help can be hard so I strive to ensure you feel relaxed and safe. My approach is warm, non-judgemental and down-to-earth. We will work as a team to help you understand why difficulties may have arisen, and guide you to develop effective coping strategies so you can live the life you really want.
I draw on principles from a range of evidence-based psychological therapies including Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT).
I know reaching for help can be hard so I strive to ensure you feel relaxed and safe. My approach is warm, non-judgemental and down-to-earth. We will work as a team to help you understand why difficulties may have arisen, and guide you to develop effective coping strategies so you can live the life you really want.
01202 149082 View 01202 149082
Photo of Dr Shem Hillman - Dr Shem Hillman (Clinical Psychologist) , Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Shem Hillman (Clinical Psychologist)
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Clinical Psychologist and accredited Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) psychotherapist, using a range of approaches to help clients navigate life's challenges. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, trauma, or stress, I offer a supportive, warm, non-judgmental space to explore your thoughts and emotions. Through evidence-based techniques, I support my clients in developing practical skills to understand and manage negative thinking patterns, build resilience, and nurture self-compassion.
I am a Clinical Psychologist and accredited Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) psychotherapist, using a range of approaches to help clients navigate life's challenges. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, trauma, or stress, I offer a supportive, warm, non-judgmental space to explore your thoughts and emotions. Through evidence-based techniques, I support my clients in developing practical skills to understand and manage negative thinking patterns, build resilience, and nurture self-compassion.
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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.