Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Counselling in Hailsham

Photo of Emily Mia Hughes-Smith, Counsellor, MBACP
Emily Mia Hughes-Smith
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, my first name is Emily but people call me Mia. I am a person-centred experiential counsellor, supervisor and counselling tutor based in Eastbourne. I offer a gentle space for you to explore potentially difficult, tender and traumatic aspects of life. I believe in the relationship between myself and my clients and that, by offering specific conditions through counselling, we can work towards long lasting change. I believe in our human potential and encourage compassionate challenge to support people in becoming more comfortable in their experience.
Hi, my first name is Emily but people call me Mia. I am a person-centred experiential counsellor, supervisor and counselling tutor based in Eastbourne. I offer a gentle space for you to explore potentially difficult, tender and traumatic aspects of life. I believe in the relationship between myself and my clients and that, by offering specific conditions through counselling, we can work towards long lasting change. I believe in our human potential and encourage compassionate challenge to support people in becoming more comfortable in their experience.
01323 405812 View 01323 405812
Photo of Linda Bonavoglia, Psychotherapist
Linda Bonavoglia
Psychotherapist
Serves Area
You may be feeling disconnected from your body, holding the breath, living mostly in your head. I see you as a whole being who has adapted to survive, often in a way that used to make sense. Breath, posture, sensations, and symptoms, including chronic physical symptoms, often carry deeper meanings. I'm an Integrative Somatic Psychotherapist, trained in Mind & Body integration to offer a unique holistic approach, grounded in neuroscience, mindfulness, nervous system regulation and somatic therapy. I also draw from a variety of approaches, as appropriate for you, guided by your preferences and the relational dynamics of our work.
You may be feeling disconnected from your body, holding the breath, living mostly in your head. I see you as a whole being who has adapted to survive, often in a way that used to make sense. Breath, posture, sensations, and symptoms, including chronic physical symptoms, often carry deeper meanings. I'm an Integrative Somatic Psychotherapist, trained in Mind & Body integration to offer a unique holistic approach, grounded in neuroscience, mindfulness, nervous system regulation and somatic therapy. I also draw from a variety of approaches, as appropriate for you, guided by your preferences and the relational dynamics of our work.
07741 960318 View 07741 960318
Photo of Polly James, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Polly James
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Serves Area
I am a Highly Specialised Clinical Psychologist and have been working in the NHS for over 10 years. I am a compassionate and friendly psychologist with experience of working with children and adults across the lifespan. I also specialise in allergies and feeding difficulties. I love the work that I do and I aim to provide a warm, friendly non-judgmental environment for therapy with children, young people, adults and their families. I am a mother and an experienced yoga teacher and believe in taking a person centered approach to help people meet their goals and make positive changes in their lives.
I am a Highly Specialised Clinical Psychologist and have been working in the NHS for over 10 years. I am a compassionate and friendly psychologist with experience of working with children and adults across the lifespan. I also specialise in allergies and feeding difficulties. I love the work that I do and I aim to provide a warm, friendly non-judgmental environment for therapy with children, young people, adults and their families. I am a mother and an experienced yoga teacher and believe in taking a person centered approach to help people meet their goals and make positive changes in their lives.
View
Photo of Catherine Pitfield, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Catherine Pitfield
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Serves Area
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

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lorna Goddard - The Goddard Clinic, Psychotherapist, PhD, MBABCP
The Goddard Clinic
Psychotherapist, PhD, MBABCP
Tonbridge TN12
I have over 15 years experience in providing psychotherapy for problems including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, trauma, eating disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder, panic, phobias and problems related to autism. Although I primarily use Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) in my work, I also draw on a variety of other therapy approaches so that I can tailor my therapy to your individual needs. I work privately with individuals and couples and I am also experienced at working with children from the age of 13 years.
I have over 15 years experience in providing psychotherapy for problems including depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, trauma, eating disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder, panic, phobias and problems related to autism. Although I primarily use Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) in my work, I also draw on a variety of other therapy approaches so that I can tailor my therapy to your individual needs. I work privately with individuals and couples and I am also experienced at working with children from the age of 13 years.
01732 496755 View 01732 496755
Photo of Bradley John Riddell, Counsellor, MBACP
Bradley John Riddell
Counsellor, MBACP
Hove BN3
Anxious? Depressed? Drinking too much? Over using recreational drugs? Relationships suffering? I use a hypno-psychotherapeutic approach to help you safely & supportively recreate unwanted, feared scenarios, such as the above, before re-stepping into them but this time forewarned and forearmed. I am Integratively trained so this means I have trained in many modalities so I can get you to where you really want to be not where you habitually return to as if it's an inevitability you can do nothing about. You can & I'll show you how. Never mind the why it's about the how. It's about what you want, NOT what you don't! My door's open....
Anxious? Depressed? Drinking too much? Over using recreational drugs? Relationships suffering? I use a hypno-psychotherapeutic approach to help you safely & supportively recreate unwanted, feared scenarios, such as the above, before re-stepping into them but this time forewarned and forearmed. I am Integratively trained so this means I have trained in many modalities so I can get you to where you really want to be not where you habitually return to as if it's an inevitability you can do nothing about. You can & I'll show you how. Never mind the why it's about the how. It's about what you want, NOT what you don't! My door's open....
01273 036063 View 01273 036063
Photo of Jemma Wilkinson, Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Jemma Wilkinson
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
You’ve already done the hard part by being here. Now let’s talk about what working with me really looks like. I am a relational, solution-focused therapist this means  I actively work with you to create meaningful change. Much of my work focuses on anxiety, LGBTQIA+, childhood trauma and attachment, and how those early experiences continue to shape your relationships, choices, and sense of self today.  Therapy with me isn’t about endless circling or sticking plasters. It’s about uncovering what’s really going on, making sense of it together, and building practical, lasting strategies so you can move forward with confidence.
You’ve already done the hard part by being here. Now let’s talk about what working with me really looks like. I am a relational, solution-focused therapist this means  I actively work with you to create meaningful change. Much of my work focuses on anxiety, LGBTQIA+, childhood trauma and attachment, and how those early experiences continue to shape your relationships, choices, and sense of self today.  Therapy with me isn’t about endless circling or sticking plasters. It’s about uncovering what’s really going on, making sense of it together, and building practical, lasting strategies so you can move forward with confidence.
07480 736198 View 07480 736198
Photo of Dr Aoiffe Kilcommons - Dr Aoiffe Kilcommons, Happiness in Mind., Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Aoiffe Kilcommons, Happiness in Mind.
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Serves Area
I love CAT, CFT, ACT, Voice Dialogue & Brainspotting - a powerful brain-based therapy for healing trauma & performance enhancement.
Are you looking for lasting happiness & well-being? Dr Kilcommons is a Consultant Clinical Psychologist, Cognitive Analytic Therapist, accredited Cognitive Behaviour Therapist & Brainspotting Therapist; with over 25 years clinical experience across community & inpatient, substance misuse, physical health, forensic & performance settings. She is also EFT Level II, Voice Dialogue & Reiki trained. She specialises in general mental health issues, trauma & working with high performers, largely in elite sports & business. Sessions are held in the strictest of confidence, with compassionate care & tailored to your needs.
I love CAT, CFT, ACT, Voice Dialogue & Brainspotting - a powerful brain-based therapy for healing trauma & performance enhancement.
Are you looking for lasting happiness & well-being? Dr Kilcommons is a Consultant Clinical Psychologist, Cognitive Analytic Therapist, accredited Cognitive Behaviour Therapist & Brainspotting Therapist; with over 25 years clinical experience across community & inpatient, substance misuse, physical health, forensic & performance settings. She is also EFT Level II, Voice Dialogue & Reiki trained. She specialises in general mental health issues, trauma & working with high performers, largely in elite sports & business. Sessions are held in the strictest of confidence, with compassionate care & tailored to your needs.
0161 524 2228 View 0161 524 2228
Photo of Dr Laura Taylor-Roberts, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Laura Taylor-Roberts
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
With 14 years of experience in the NHS, I can offer you a tailored approach to overcome a variety of challenges. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties or relationship issues, I can provide you with a safe and confidential space to explore your thoughts and feelings.
With 14 years of experience in the NHS, I can offer you a tailored approach to overcome a variety of challenges. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties or relationship issues, I can provide you with a safe and confidential space to explore your thoughts and feelings.
01892 362280 View 01892 362280
Photo of Jeanette Stanton, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Jeanette Stanton
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
5 Endorsed
I have also had training in Mindfulness approaches, Compassionate Focused Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT).
I am an accredited CBT Therapist and EMDR practitioner with many years experience of working in NHS physical and mental healthcare settings. My aim is to provide a CBT or EMDR approach, tailored to your goals of therapy and provide you with strategies to promote recovery and enable you to engage more fully with life and enjoyable activities. I also offer specialised CBT for people who are struggling with psychological distress that may be associated with physical health conditions. I am also a BABCP trained CBT Supervisor.
I have also had training in Mindfulness approaches, Compassionate Focused Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT).
I am an accredited CBT Therapist and EMDR practitioner with many years experience of working in NHS physical and mental healthcare settings. My aim is to provide a CBT or EMDR approach, tailored to your goals of therapy and provide you with strategies to promote recovery and enable you to engage more fully with life and enjoyable activities. I also offer specialised CBT for people who are struggling with psychological distress that may be associated with physical health conditions. I am also a BABCP trained CBT Supervisor.
01444 719994 View 01444 719994
Photo of Dr Yordan K. Zhekov, Counsellor, PhD, MBACP
Dr Yordan K. Zhekov
Counsellor, PhD, MBACP
Serves Area
Are you feeling depressed, anxious, stressed or struggling with everyday life? Perhaps you are experiencing feelings you can't quite identify? Are you looking for help with various life challenging issues/situations? Have you got to the point where you can't go on alone and need someone else to help you? Whatever you are facing, you no longer have to do this alone, I am here to provide you with relevant support and address your needs. As an integrative counsellor I am using a compilation of therapeutic methods tailored to the individual's needs and goals providing an environment for enablement and empowerment of their achievement.
Are you feeling depressed, anxious, stressed or struggling with everyday life? Perhaps you are experiencing feelings you can't quite identify? Are you looking for help with various life challenging issues/situations? Have you got to the point where you can't go on alone and need someone else to help you? Whatever you are facing, you no longer have to do this alone, I am here to provide you with relevant support and address your needs. As an integrative counsellor I am using a compilation of therapeutic methods tailored to the individual's needs and goals providing an environment for enablement and empowerment of their achievement.
01923 936765 View 01923 936765
Photo of Eleanor Gavira, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Eleanor Gavira
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Online Only
With over 20 years of experience in mental health, I offer evidence-based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) designed to help you overcome life’s challenges and move toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. As a dual-trained CBT Therapist (Low-Intensity & High-Intensity CBT ) and special educational needs teacher, I tailor therapy to meet your unique needs - whether you’re seeking focused, practical support or deeper, long-term change. Areas of Support - Depression, Worry & Stress Management, Panic & Phobias, Social Anxiety Disorder, Health Anxiety, OCD, Mild to Moderate PTSD
With over 20 years of experience in mental health, I offer evidence-based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) designed to help you overcome life’s challenges and move toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. As a dual-trained CBT Therapist (Low-Intensity & High-Intensity CBT ) and special educational needs teacher, I tailor therapy to meet your unique needs - whether you’re seeking focused, practical support or deeper, long-term change. Areas of Support - Depression, Worry & Stress Management, Panic & Phobias, Social Anxiety Disorder, Health Anxiety, OCD, Mild to Moderate PTSD
01403 907118 View 01403 907118
Photo of Rukshana Ali, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Rukshana Ali
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Online Only
Life can be tough at times and sometimes we need a bit of help to manage. I offer psychological assessment and intervention for children, young people and adults. I have specialist expertise in working with health conditions including, psychodermatology, dermatology (e.g. acne, eczema, alopecia, hair pulling, skin picking and genetic skin diseases), weight management, diabetes, endocrine disorders, respiratory, renal and cardiac issues, amongst others.
Life can be tough at times and sometimes we need a bit of help to manage. I offer psychological assessment and intervention for children, young people and adults. I have specialist expertise in working with health conditions including, psychodermatology, dermatology (e.g. acne, eczema, alopecia, hair pulling, skin picking and genetic skin diseases), weight management, diabetes, endocrine disorders, respiratory, renal and cardiac issues, amongst others.
01474 554905 View 01474 554905
Photo of Abby S Quick, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Abby S Quick
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
1 Endorsed
I am heavily influenced by compassion-focused & ACT approaches
I am passionate about CBT and my therapeutic approach offers curiosity, compassion, support, non-judgement, knowledge and hope throughout a goals-led treatment process. I am a huge advocate for 'keeping things simple' and work creatively - using metaphors, imagery, reference to pop culture/social media platforms and humour (where appropriate!) to sustain client interest and aid learning and insight. I am a therapist who believes human connection is vital, particularly in this day-and-age of AI and virtual forms of interaction. My preferred method of working therefore is in-person (although I do also offer online methods.)
I am heavily influenced by compassion-focused & ACT approaches
I am passionate about CBT and my therapeutic approach offers curiosity, compassion, support, non-judgement, knowledge and hope throughout a goals-led treatment process. I am a huge advocate for 'keeping things simple' and work creatively - using metaphors, imagery, reference to pop culture/social media platforms and humour (where appropriate!) to sustain client interest and aid learning and insight. I am a therapist who believes human connection is vital, particularly in this day-and-age of AI and virtual forms of interaction. My preferred method of working therefore is in-person (although I do also offer online methods.)
01444 221447 View 01444 221447
Photo of Danielle Nicole Phoenix, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Danielle Nicole Phoenix
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Uckfield TN22
It is a natural part of life to go through periods where it can feel really difficult to securely exist and to move through life comfortably, both in relation to body and mind. The extent to which this is experienced depends on the individual and their own set of life experiences, including personal and family history, ancestry, and each individual’s unique genetic-biological make-up. Thus, I incorporate all of these elements into my work.
It is a natural part of life to go through periods where it can feel really difficult to securely exist and to move through life comfortably, both in relation to body and mind. The extent to which this is experienced depends on the individual and their own set of life experiences, including personal and family history, ancestry, and each individual’s unique genetic-biological make-up. Thus, I incorporate all of these elements into my work.
01342 777703 View 01342 777703
Photo of Emma Tullett, Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Emma Tullett
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
3 Endorsed
Hove BN3
I work in a holistic way that honours your unique experience and draws on a number of different therapeutic approaches to tailor support to your individual needs, including Internal family Systems Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
If you are struggling with an aspect of your life, or would like to get a better understanding of yourself, I'm here to help. I am an experienced Integrative Existential psychotherapist offering a confidential, supportive, safe, and non-judgemental space to help you explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviours. I work in a holistic way that honours your unique experience and draws on a number of different therapeutic approaches to tailor support to your individual needs. I value diversity and individuality, my practice is non-discriminatory, I work within the UKCP ethical framework and I hold an Enhanced DBS certificate.
I work in a holistic way that honours your unique experience and draws on a number of different therapeutic approaches to tailor support to your individual needs, including Internal family Systems Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
If you are struggling with an aspect of your life, or would like to get a better understanding of yourself, I'm here to help. I am an experienced Integrative Existential psychotherapist offering a confidential, supportive, safe, and non-judgemental space to help you explore your thoughts, feelings and behaviours. I work in a holistic way that honours your unique experience and draws on a number of different therapeutic approaches to tailor support to your individual needs. I value diversity and individuality, my practice is non-discriminatory, I work within the UKCP ethical framework and I hold an Enhanced DBS certificate.
01273 036039 View 01273 036039
Photo of Catrina Lafferty, Counsellor, MBACP
Catrina Lafferty
Counsellor, MBACP
Hastings TN34
I use a blend of styles, including CBT, ACT & person-centred and IFS.
I have extensive experience supporting adults and young people with anxiety, depression, bereavement and relationship difficulties. I am an Integrative Therapist which means I draw on different approaches and modalities specific to your needs, creating a safe space so that you can begin the process from surviving to thriving. My practice focuses on building a collaborative and trusting relationship where you can talk openly about your difficulties. I offer online and face to face sessions in a private and comfortable space in my home.
I use a blend of styles, including CBT, ACT & person-centred and IFS.
I have extensive experience supporting adults and young people with anxiety, depression, bereavement and relationship difficulties. I am an Integrative Therapist which means I draw on different approaches and modalities specific to your needs, creating a safe space so that you can begin the process from surviving to thriving. My practice focuses on building a collaborative and trusting relationship where you can talk openly about your difficulties. I offer online and face to face sessions in a private and comfortable space in my home.
01424 236653 View 01424 236653
Photo of Dr Tara Quinn-Cirillo, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Dr Tara Quinn-Cirillo
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Horsham RH12
I mainly use Cognitive Behaviorual Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy ( ACT).
I specialise in woking with adults with mental health difficulties and emotional difficulties. I also specialise in assessing, treating and supporting adults with Learning Disabilities and Adults with Autistic Spectrum Disorders.
I mainly use Cognitive Behaviorual Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy ( ACT).
I specialise in woking with adults with mental health difficulties and emotional difficulties. I also specialise in assessing, treating and supporting adults with Learning Disabilities and Adults with Autistic Spectrum Disorders.
01403 540186 View 01403 540186
Photo of Christine Simms - The Mind-Body Guide, Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, PNCPS Acc.
The Mind-Body Guide
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, PNCPS Acc.
Online Only
The foundation of my approach is ACT but I have a wealth of science backed tools to share with you.
Are you living with chronic pain a long-term condition or medically unexplained symptoms? Are you still suffering despite having been treated by doctors and other health professionals? Have your symptoms been fully investigated? I work with people who find themselves in this predicament. Individuals who have researched alternatives and come across a Mind-Body approach but aren’t quite sure if it will provide them with answers or relief. I could be the therapist for you. As a specialist pain psychotherapist and physiotherapist, I understand how the Mind and Body work. This is so important when it comes to pain and suffering.
The foundation of my approach is ACT but I have a wealth of science backed tools to share with you.
Are you living with chronic pain a long-term condition or medically unexplained symptoms? Are you still suffering despite having been treated by doctors and other health professionals? Have your symptoms been fully investigated? I work with people who find themselves in this predicament. Individuals who have researched alternatives and come across a Mind-Body approach but aren’t quite sure if it will provide them with answers or relief. I could be the therapist for you. As a specialist pain psychotherapist and physiotherapist, I understand how the Mind and Body work. This is so important when it comes to pain and suffering.
01663 790984 View 01663 790984
Photo of Maisie Nicholls - EMDR Therapy , MSc
EMDR Therapy
Verified Verified
Online Only
And the constant balancing act between ambition and wellbeing or resilience and vulnerability can leave you feeling depleted, stretched thin, and alone.
I’m an EMDR therapist who helps women leaders make sense of the emotional impact of working in high stakes environments. Together, we can work on the patterns that hold you back. Whether that’s feeling “not enough,” struggling to set boundaries, or finding it hard to switch off. My approach combines strengthening your inner resources alongside renegotiat
And the constant balancing act between ambition and wellbeing or resilience and vulnerability can leave you feeling depleted, stretched thin, and alone.
I’m an EMDR therapist who helps women leaders make sense of the emotional impact of working in high stakes environments. Together, we can work on the patterns that hold you back. Whether that’s feeling “not enough,” struggling to set boundaries, or finding it hard to switch off. My approach combines strengthening your inner resources alongside renegotiat
01889 227311 View 01889 227311
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.