Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Counselling in Dunmow

Photo of Dr Ryan Hesp, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Ryan Hesp
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Dunmow CM6
I’m a Clinical Psychologist (HCPC registered) with over 10 years’ experience across NHS, private and charitable services. I work with individuals, couples, and families who may feel stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected, often facing challenges such as anxiety, low mood, trauma, relationship difficulties, or difficult life experiences. People come to me to support a deeper understanding of themselves or their situation, to manage through difficult times, and to help create meaningful, lasting change. I offer a non‑judgemental space where we can make sense of what’s going on together and find a way forward that feels right for you.
I’m a Clinical Psychologist (HCPC registered) with over 10 years’ experience across NHS, private and charitable services. I work with individuals, couples, and families who may feel stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected, often facing challenges such as anxiety, low mood, trauma, relationship difficulties, or difficult life experiences. People come to me to support a deeper understanding of themselves or their situation, to manage through difficult times, and to help create meaningful, lasting change. I offer a non‑judgemental space where we can make sense of what’s going on together and find a way forward that feels right for you.
01279 744295 View 01279 744295
Photo of Neill Anthony Bartlett, Psychotherapist
Neill Anthony Bartlett
Psychotherapist
Serves Area
My approach to both psychological and physiological suffering is to help patients work through their often long-standing personal difficulties, whilst promoting self- acceptance and committed action.
I have a great deal of experience helping people with depression, anxiety, chronic pain and complex trauma. I bring a mindful, flexible approach to working with all my clients/patients. I believe that most people can benefit from therapy and find ways to manage their own problems. This of course usually means being willing enough to face a challenge.
My approach to both psychological and physiological suffering is to help patients work through their often long-standing personal difficulties, whilst promoting self- acceptance and committed action.
I have a great deal of experience helping people with depression, anxiety, chronic pain and complex trauma. I bring a mindful, flexible approach to working with all my clients/patients. I believe that most people can benefit from therapy and find ways to manage their own problems. This of course usually means being willing enough to face a challenge.
01799 619984 View 01799 619984
Photo of Peter Finlay, Psychotherapist, PhD, MBACP Accred
Peter Finlay
Psychotherapist, PhD, MBACP Accred
Serves Area
I am very mindful of how difficult finding a therapist that you feel comfortable with can be and I offer a calm and compassionate approach, while we gain an understanding of your concerns. My primary therapeutic method is ‘psychodynamic’ but I draw on a variety of ‘models’ to help in whichever way is appropriate: These may include CBT or EFT. Once we have revealed, talked-through and understood the root causes of your concerns we can examine ways of dealing with the issues and moving forward. This is a very much a joint effort where we work together to help you through the troublesome episode and out the other side.
I am very mindful of how difficult finding a therapist that you feel comfortable with can be and I offer a calm and compassionate approach, while we gain an understanding of your concerns. My primary therapeutic method is ‘psychodynamic’ but I draw on a variety of ‘models’ to help in whichever way is appropriate: These may include CBT or EFT. Once we have revealed, talked-through and understood the root causes of your concerns we can examine ways of dealing with the issues and moving forward. This is a very much a joint effort where we work together to help you through the troublesome episode and out the other side.
01376 313350 View 01376 313350
Photo of Gemma Schwier, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Gemma Schwier
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Online Only
I use Compassion Focused Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to tailor therapy to your individual needs and enhance the benefits of CBT, ensuring long-term results.
Feeling stuck, even when you know what you should do? Maybe you look capable and together to others, but feel held back on the inside by overthinking, self-doubt, or fear of getting things wrong. Perhaps you put things off until you feel more confident or certain; and then feel frustrated with yourself for not achieving. You might recognise yourself if: - You have high standards and are hard on yourself - You overthink decisions and struggle to get started - You feel pressure to do things “properly” or not at all - You appear confident to others but feel stuck or behind - You often tell yourself you should be coping better
I use Compassion Focused Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to tailor therapy to your individual needs and enhance the benefits of CBT, ensuring long-term results.
Feeling stuck, even when you know what you should do? Maybe you look capable and together to others, but feel held back on the inside by overthinking, self-doubt, or fear of getting things wrong. Perhaps you put things off until you feel more confident or certain; and then feel frustrated with yourself for not achieving. You might recognise yourself if: - You have high standards and are hard on yourself - You overthink decisions and struggle to get started - You feel pressure to do things “properly” or not at all - You appear confident to others but feel stuck or behind - You often tell yourself you should be coping better
01277 674288 View 01277 674288

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Clare Green, Counsellor, MBACP
Clare Green
Counsellor, MBACP
Hertford SG13
I'm Clare, a fully qualified psychotherapist with over 10 years’ experience. I hold diplomas in Humanistic Integrative Psychotherapy, DBT, CFT, and ADHD Coaching. I work holistically, with special interests in personality disorders, narcissistic abuse recovery, and ADHD. I also bring personal experience of narcissistic coercion and domestic violence. I'm passionate about men’s mental health and creating safe, non-judgmental spaces. I offer sessions in Hertfordshire and North Yorkshire and online via Microsoft Teams or FaceTime.
I'm Clare, a fully qualified psychotherapist with over 10 years’ experience. I hold diplomas in Humanistic Integrative Psychotherapy, DBT, CFT, and ADHD Coaching. I work holistically, with special interests in personality disorders, narcissistic abuse recovery, and ADHD. I also bring personal experience of narcissistic coercion and domestic violence. I'm passionate about men’s mental health and creating safe, non-judgmental spaces. I offer sessions in Hertfordshire and North Yorkshire and online via Microsoft Teams or FaceTime.
01920 452587 View 01920 452587
Photo of Dr Emma Sinclair, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Emma Sinclair
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Online Only
I work integratively, tailoring support to each family by drawing on evidence-based therapy using CFT, ACT, CBT, Narrative and Systemic approaches.
I provide evidence-based support for a wide range of emotional, behavioural and mental health difficulties affecting children and families, including anxiety, low mood, panic attacks, behavioural challenges and adjusting to life changes such as parental separation or a neurodiversity diagnosis. I also support parents with perinatal concerns (including pre- and postnatal anxiety, low mood and birth trauma) and early years concerns such as sleep, tantrums and parent-child relationships. I work collaboratively with parents, recognising that they know their child best, and believe that early support can make a lasting difference.
I work integratively, tailoring support to each family by drawing on evidence-based therapy using CFT, ACT, CBT, Narrative and Systemic approaches.
I provide evidence-based support for a wide range of emotional, behavioural and mental health difficulties affecting children and families, including anxiety, low mood, panic attacks, behavioural challenges and adjusting to life changes such as parental separation or a neurodiversity diagnosis. I also support parents with perinatal concerns (including pre- and postnatal anxiety, low mood and birth trauma) and early years concerns such as sleep, tantrums and parent-child relationships. I work collaboratively with parents, recognising that they know their child best, and believe that early support can make a lasting difference.
View
Photo of Marietta Arampatzi, Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Marietta Arampatzi
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Drawing also on approaches such as CBT, Acceptance and Commitment, Mindfulness, and Narrative Therapy, I support you in building resilience and creating meaningful, lasting change.
With over 10 years of experience in the public sector and NHS, I’ve helped people facing various mental health issues, such as neurodevelopmental difficulties (ASD, ADHD) and emotional and behavioural challenges (i.e depression, anxiety, attachment & developmental issues and PTSD). I focus on enhancing strengths, improving resilience and fostering recovery.
Drawing also on approaches such as CBT, Acceptance and Commitment, Mindfulness, and Narrative Therapy, I support you in building resilience and creating meaningful, lasting change.
With over 10 years of experience in the public sector and NHS, I’ve helped people facing various mental health issues, such as neurodevelopmental difficulties (ASD, ADHD) and emotional and behavioural challenges (i.e depression, anxiety, attachment & developmental issues and PTSD). I focus on enhancing strengths, improving resilience and fostering recovery.
020 3857 9602 View 020 3857 9602
Photo of Louise Southwell, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Louise Southwell
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
1 Endorsed
Hertford SG14
I am qualified and experienced in delivering CBT, MBCT, ACT, CFT.
Do you find yourself constantly worrying, caught in a cycle of overthinking, or feeling like life is passing you by? Are you often feelings stuck in "what if" thoughts, or struggling with intrusive and negative thoughts that seem impossible to escape? Maybe you’re feeling low, unmotivated, or questioning your self-worth—wondering why it’s so hard to enjoy the things that once brought you happiness, or why you often find yourself not feeling present in the moment. Maybe leading to avoidance of certain work and social situations. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone (even if it feels that way).
I am qualified and experienced in delivering CBT, MBCT, ACT, CFT.
Do you find yourself constantly worrying, caught in a cycle of overthinking, or feeling like life is passing you by? Are you often feelings stuck in "what if" thoughts, or struggling with intrusive and negative thoughts that seem impossible to escape? Maybe you’re feeling low, unmotivated, or questioning your self-worth—wondering why it’s so hard to enjoy the things that once brought you happiness, or why you often find yourself not feeling present in the moment. Maybe leading to avoidance of certain work and social situations. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone (even if it feels that way).
01279 598947 View 01279 598947
Photo of Adam Coombes, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Adam Coombes
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Maldon CM9
If you’re here, something may not feel right. You might be managing anxiety that never fully switches off, carrying the weight of trauma, navigating relationship strain, or simply feeling stuck and exhausted. I pride my practice on being down-to-earth, professional, non-judgmental and confidential. Therapy with me is structured and evidence-based, but never cold or overly clinical. Clients often say they value having a therapist who is steady, straightforward and genuinely human. You don’t need to have everything figured out before reaching out. Some people come with clear goals; others just know they can’t keep going as they are.
If you’re here, something may not feel right. You might be managing anxiety that never fully switches off, carrying the weight of trauma, navigating relationship strain, or simply feeling stuck and exhausted. I pride my practice on being down-to-earth, professional, non-judgmental and confidential. Therapy with me is structured and evidence-based, but never cold or overly clinical. Clients often say they value having a therapist who is steady, straightforward and genuinely human. You don’t need to have everything figured out before reaching out. Some people come with clear goals; others just know they can’t keep going as they are.
01621 738584 View 01621 738584
Photo of Emese Taylor, Counsellor, COSRT Reg.
Emese Taylor
Counsellor, COSRT Reg.
Serves Area
I'm a sex and relationship therapist with over 15 years' experience. I work with men and women in Central London and Surrey on sexual difficulties, relationship issues, and a loss of confidence around dating and intimacy. You might be dealing with erectile dysfunction, pain during sex, low desire, infidelity, or rebuilding after a separation. I'm a registered member of COSRT (the College of Sexual and Relationship Therapists) and an accredited sex educator through ACET UK. I've worked in the NHS psychosexual department, and my work has been featured in ITV News and Cosmopolitan.
I'm a sex and relationship therapist with over 15 years' experience. I work with men and women in Central London and Surrey on sexual difficulties, relationship issues, and a loss of confidence around dating and intimacy. You might be dealing with erectile dysfunction, pain during sex, low desire, infidelity, or rebuilding after a separation. I'm a registered member of COSRT (the College of Sexual and Relationship Therapists) and an accredited sex educator through ACET UK. I've worked in the NHS psychosexual department, and my work has been featured in ITV News and Cosmopolitan.
020 4572 5819 View 020 4572 5819
Photo of Dr Emma Hormoz, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Dr Emma Hormoz
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
London N22
People often feel unsure about starting therapy and it can feel like a big decision to make. I would suggest a one-off consultation to meet. This will allow us time to think together about whether you would consider working with me and how I might be able to support you in making changes to improve your situation.
People often feel unsure about starting therapy and it can feel like a big decision to make. I would suggest a one-off consultation to meet. This will allow us time to think together about whether you would consider working with me and how I might be able to support you in making changes to improve your situation.
01992 927808 View 01992 927808
Photo of Dr Jill Bowman, Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Dr Jill Bowman
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Serves Area
I am Jill, a Chartered Counselling Psychologist with experience of working with adults, adolescents, young people, couples and neurodivergent individuals. I also work with adults affected by adoption. I work with a range of challenging issues and psychological difficulties including anxiety, depression, loss, relationship issues, attachment problems, trauma, life transitions, identity and low self-esteem.
I am Jill, a Chartered Counselling Psychologist with experience of working with adults, adolescents, young people, couples and neurodivergent individuals. I also work with adults affected by adoption. I work with a range of challenging issues and psychological difficulties including anxiety, depression, loss, relationship issues, attachment problems, trauma, life transitions, identity and low self-esteem.
020 4634 0341 View 020 4634 0341
Photo of Dr Charlotte Taylor, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Charlotte Taylor
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Every person’s journey is unique, and I believe therapy should reflect that. I take an eclectic approach, drawing from Systemic Therapy, CBT, and other evidence-based approaches to tailor each session to your specific needs and goals. I work with many different age groups, although have the most experience with children, teenagers and families. Whether you're seeking practical strategies for change or a deeper exploration of emotions and relationships, I attune to what works best for you. My focus is on creating a safe, collaborative space where we can explore challenges and build resilience.
Every person’s journey is unique, and I believe therapy should reflect that. I take an eclectic approach, drawing from Systemic Therapy, CBT, and other evidence-based approaches to tailor each session to your specific needs and goals. I work with many different age groups, although have the most experience with children, teenagers and families. Whether you're seeking practical strategies for change or a deeper exploration of emotions and relationships, I attune to what works best for you. My focus is on creating a safe, collaborative space where we can explore challenges and build resilience.
View
Photo of Beata Bakiej, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Beata Bakiej
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Online Only
Life can feel overwhelming, especially when anxiety, overthinking or emotional exhaustion start to take over. You may be coping on the outside while feeling stuck or disconnected inside. Sometimes the hardest part isn’t what happened, but carrying it alone for too long. Many people come to therapy feeling tired of being strong, confused by their emotions, or disconnected from themselves. I offer a quiet, thoughtful space to slow down and gently explore what’s beneath the surface—without pressure, labels or judgement...
Life can feel overwhelming, especially when anxiety, overthinking or emotional exhaustion start to take over. You may be coping on the outside while feeling stuck or disconnected inside. Sometimes the hardest part isn’t what happened, but carrying it alone for too long. Many people come to therapy feeling tired of being strong, confused by their emotions, or disconnected from themselves. I offer a quiet, thoughtful space to slow down and gently explore what’s beneath the surface—without pressure, labels or judgement...
01527 918549 View 01527 918549
Photo of Nia Gkizounidi, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Nia Gkizounidi
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
3 Endorsed
London E3
I work collaboratively with people, using a combination of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Schema Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Compassion-focused Therapy (CfT), Mindfulness, and EMDR to explore and address the underlying issues, fostering lasting change.
I specialise in General and Social Anxiety, Health Anxiety, Communication Issues, Obsessions & Compulsions, Panic, Low Self-Esteem, Sleep Difficulties, Trauma, Depression, Interpersonal Challenges, Childhood Trauma, and Personality Difficulties. My approach is practical, evidence-based, and tailored to your unique needs.
I work collaboratively with people, using a combination of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Schema Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Compassion-focused Therapy (CfT), Mindfulness, and EMDR to explore and address the underlying issues, fostering lasting change.
I specialise in General and Social Anxiety, Health Anxiety, Communication Issues, Obsessions & Compulsions, Panic, Low Self-Esteem, Sleep Difficulties, Trauma, Depression, Interpersonal Challenges, Childhood Trauma, and Personality Difficulties. My approach is practical, evidence-based, and tailored to your unique needs.
View
Photo of Joanne Elizabeth Stuart - Dr Jo Psychologist, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Jo Psychologist
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Enfield EN2
This includes CBT, Schema focused therapy, ACT and CFT.
I have been a psychologist for over 20 years and have extensive experience working with everything from complex trauma to simple phobias. Although I have a lot of practical knowledge & training, my clients have described me as warm & approachable. I love my job and feel privileged to share in my clients' journeys. My aim will be to work with you to help you reach your full potential and put to the side any psychological problems that are getting in the way. As such, I will work to help you understand where & why your problem started but at the same time, provide a tool bag of strategies to help you to move towards your best self.
This includes CBT, Schema focused therapy, ACT and CFT.
I have been a psychologist for over 20 years and have extensive experience working with everything from complex trauma to simple phobias. Although I have a lot of practical knowledge & training, my clients have described me as warm & approachable. I love my job and feel privileged to share in my clients' journeys. My aim will be to work with you to help you reach your full potential and put to the side any psychological problems that are getting in the way. As such, I will work to help you understand where & why your problem started but at the same time, provide a tool bag of strategies to help you to move towards your best self.
01992 663308 View 01992 663308
Photo of Dr Paris Capleton, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Paris Capleton
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My work includes Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, DBT-informed skills, Compassion-Focused Therapy, attachment-focused psychotherapeutic work, and systemic or narrative therapies.
Everyone deserves a space where they feel seen, heard, and safe. Many people come to me feeling disconnected from themselves, experiancing relational challenges or carrying the weight of anxiety, low mood, low self esteem, burnout, or childhood trauma that still shape their lives. If familiar patterns keep resurfacing and you’re ready to understand why, our sessions offer a calm, grounded space to explore your story, untangle overwhelming emotions, and understand how your past continues to influence your identity, choices, and wellbeing.
My work includes Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, DBT-informed skills, Compassion-Focused Therapy, attachment-focused psychotherapeutic work, and systemic or narrative therapies.
Everyone deserves a space where they feel seen, heard, and safe. Many people come to me feeling disconnected from themselves, experiancing relational challenges or carrying the weight of anxiety, low mood, low self esteem, burnout, or childhood trauma that still shape their lives. If familiar patterns keep resurfacing and you’re ready to understand why, our sessions offer a calm, grounded space to explore your story, untangle overwhelming emotions, and understand how your past continues to influence your identity, choices, and wellbeing.
020 4634 6802 View 020 4634 6802
Photo of Eray Ertugrul, Psychologist, MSc, GMBPsS
Eray Ertugrul
Psychologist, MSc, GMBPsS
Waitlist for new clients
My approach is inspired by eclectic and evidence-based therapeutic methods including CBT, CFT, ACT, SFT, Positive Psychology and Mindfulness.
Life is a forest—ever-changing, untamed. Some paths are clear, others tangled, but every turn shapes you. Even when we feel lost, the roots still hold, the light still finds its way, and every step leads us somewhere beautiful where the deepest roots learn to grow. Walk ahead, where the paths unfold, and the peace is found.
My approach is inspired by eclectic and evidence-based therapeutic methods including CBT, CFT, ACT, SFT, Positive Psychology and Mindfulness.
Life is a forest—ever-changing, untamed. Some paths are clear, others tangled, but every turn shapes you. Even when we feel lost, the roots still hold, the light still finds its way, and every step leads us somewhere beautiful where the deepest roots learn to grow. Walk ahead, where the paths unfold, and the peace is found.
01223 912993 View 01223 912993
Photo of Shaheen Walker, Counsellor, MBACP
Shaheen Walker
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
Hi - are you feeling stuck? Repeating the same patterns of behaviour again and again in your life or relationship and going around in circles? Do you feel a lack of love/respect from your partner or someone close to you? Is sex/intimacy or compulsive sexual behaviour an issue? Perhaps trauma, life changes, neurodiversity (adhd/asc) or difficult times have led to anxiety/depression, the trust has gone, or you're feeling sad, angry, lonely, numb, or not sure what you feel anymore? I provide a safe, non-judgmental space supporting individuals, couples, neurodiverse and enm relationships gain confidence to change and improve wellbeing.
Hi - are you feeling stuck? Repeating the same patterns of behaviour again and again in your life or relationship and going around in circles? Do you feel a lack of love/respect from your partner or someone close to you? Is sex/intimacy or compulsive sexual behaviour an issue? Perhaps trauma, life changes, neurodiversity (adhd/asc) or difficult times have led to anxiety/depression, the trust has gone, or you're feeling sad, angry, lonely, numb, or not sure what you feel anymore? I provide a safe, non-judgmental space supporting individuals, couples, neurodiverse and enm relationships gain confidence to change and improve wellbeing.
01895 545137 View 01895 545137
Photo of Iwona Drozdz, Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Iwona Drozdz
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Serves Area
Therapy can be a powerful tool for addressing the effects of trauma and helping individuals heal. The approach to trauma therapy is deeply rooted in creating a safe and supportive environment where healing can unfold at a comfortable pace.​ Understanding the neurobiological effects of trauma is crucial to effectively implementing trauma-informed practice. This knowledge informs strategies that promote safety, trust, and resilience and prevent re-traumatisation. In my practice, neuroscience is applied to support healing in the aftermath of trauma.
Therapy can be a powerful tool for addressing the effects of trauma and helping individuals heal. The approach to trauma therapy is deeply rooted in creating a safe and supportive environment where healing can unfold at a comfortable pace.​ Understanding the neurobiological effects of trauma is crucial to effectively implementing trauma-informed practice. This knowledge informs strategies that promote safety, trust, and resilience and prevent re-traumatisation. In my practice, neuroscience is applied to support healing in the aftermath of trauma.
020 8059 8432 View 020 8059 8432
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.