Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Counselling in Southwark, London

Photo of Dr Florencia Gysbertha, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Dr Florencia Gysbertha
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Online Only
Radical self-love, self- acceptance, and empowering yourself alongside a healthy dose of self-expression through laughter, self-exploration, curiosity, and a good ugly cry when needed, will be at the core of our work together.
Life can feel like a battlefield when childhood wounds, complex trauma, and the scars of abusive relationships leave their mark. You may find yourself stuck in painful cycles of overthinking every interaction, doubting your self-worth, or repeating patterns that no longer serve you. Perhaps you carry the weight of people-pleasing, emotional overwhelm, or an inner voice that never seems to quieten. You might wonder, “Why can’t I just move on?” You’re not alone.
Radical self-love, self- acceptance, and empowering yourself alongside a healthy dose of self-expression through laughter, self-exploration, curiosity, and a good ugly cry when needed, will be at the core of our work together.
Life can feel like a battlefield when childhood wounds, complex trauma, and the scars of abusive relationships leave their mark. You may find yourself stuck in painful cycles of overthinking every interaction, doubting your self-worth, or repeating patterns that no longer serve you. Perhaps you carry the weight of people-pleasing, emotional overwhelm, or an inner voice that never seems to quieten. You might wonder, “Why can’t I just move on?” You’re not alone.
020 4572 2416 x44 View 020 4572 2416 x44
Photo of Dr Cherilyn Lewis, Psychologist
Dr Cherilyn Lewis
Psychologist
Southwark, London SE1
I have completed training in ACT and EMDR and also offer CBT and Motivational Interviewing.
I am a Consultant Clinical Neuropsychologist who has worked extensively with individuals and families with a wide range of brain injury and neurological conditions. Whether administering cognitive tests to support diagnosis or rehabilitation, delivering psychological therapy for adjustment, trauma, and mood disorders, or assessing for mental capacity issues, my approach is compassionate, person-centred, and flexible. I tailor my sessions to accommodate cognitive and communication difficulties and offer sessions at your home or in my London Bridge clinic.
I have completed training in ACT and EMDR and also offer CBT and Motivational Interviewing.
I am a Consultant Clinical Neuropsychologist who has worked extensively with individuals and families with a wide range of brain injury and neurological conditions. Whether administering cognitive tests to support diagnosis or rehabilitation, delivering psychological therapy for adjustment, trauma, and mood disorders, or assessing for mental capacity issues, my approach is compassionate, person-centred, and flexible. I tailor my sessions to accommodate cognitive and communication difficulties and offer sessions at your home or in my London Bridge clinic.
020 3974 1695 View 020 3974 1695
Photo of Dr Adela Mrkaljevic, Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Dr Adela Mrkaljevic
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Online Only
I work in a way that is integrative, drawing on a range of therapeutic approaches—including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) , Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT) ,and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT.
These methods are carefully selected to address a wide range of difficulties, including depression, anxiety, phobias, personality disorders, long term health conditions and trauma, including PTSD and the effects of child sexual abuse. I also support individuals navigating life stressors, such as; work stress, relationship difficulties and grief.
I work in a way that is integrative, drawing on a range of therapeutic approaches—including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) , Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT) ,and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT.
These methods are carefully selected to address a wide range of difficulties, including depression, anxiety, phobias, personality disorders, long term health conditions and trauma, including PTSD and the effects of child sexual abuse. I also support individuals navigating life stressors, such as; work stress, relationship difficulties and grief.
020 7046 0175 View 020 7046 0175
Photo of Marc Whittaker, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Marc Whittaker
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Southwark, London SE1
My integrative approach uses interventions and techniques from MBET, AEDP, ACT, SENSORIMOTOR and IFS to help you develop a greater awareness and understanding of your inner world, your thoughts, feelings and processes.
My role as therapist is to work alongside you, creating a supported, non-judgemental space, where we can explore together what you are experiencing, at a pace that feels safe. Together we can tackle themes like anxiety, hypervigilance, depression, dissociation, intrusive thoughts, or a combination of all. I will work with you to create a greater sense of internal balance, help you manage stress, resolve the impact of trauma, heal from, and navigate life transitions, relationships and through a new awareness, build a greater resilience,feeling better able to regulate emotions and less overwhelmed with the complexities of modern life.
My integrative approach uses interventions and techniques from MBET, AEDP, ACT, SENSORIMOTOR and IFS to help you develop a greater awareness and understanding of your inner world, your thoughts, feelings and processes.
My role as therapist is to work alongside you, creating a supported, non-judgemental space, where we can explore together what you are experiencing, at a pace that feels safe. Together we can tackle themes like anxiety, hypervigilance, depression, dissociation, intrusive thoughts, or a combination of all. I will work with you to create a greater sense of internal balance, help you manage stress, resolve the impact of trauma, heal from, and navigate life transitions, relationships and through a new awareness, build a greater resilience,feeling better able to regulate emotions and less overwhelmed with the complexities of modern life.
020 8090 5170 View 020 8090 5170
Photo of Dr Natalie Lim, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Natalie Lim
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Online Only
My practice is largely informed by Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and I also incorporate other modalities including Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT).
With a humanistic and systemic approach, I deeply value providing goal-driven, client-led and culturally sensitive care. My experience spans across NHS settings and third-sector organizations, and I have also worked with a diverse range of populations, including those from various cultural backgrounds and individuals with neurodiversity.
My practice is largely informed by Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and I also incorporate other modalities including Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT).
With a humanistic and systemic approach, I deeply value providing goal-driven, client-led and culturally sensitive care. My experience spans across NHS settings and third-sector organizations, and I have also worked with a diverse range of populations, including those from various cultural backgrounds and individuals with neurodiversity.
020 4572 5180 View 020 4572 5180
Photo of Dr Angeliki Schiza, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Angeliki Schiza
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Online Only
I work integratively offering evidence-based therapies, particularly Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Narrative Therapy and EMDR (EMDR Europe certified).
Working integratively means that I can combine different types of therapy to suit your needs. I support people with issues concerning low self-esteem, body image and appearance concerns, stress, worries, sadness, relationship issues and work-related stress and burnout. I also work with issues of identity and culture.
I work integratively offering evidence-based therapies, particularly Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Narrative Therapy and EMDR (EMDR Europe certified).
Working integratively means that I can combine different types of therapy to suit your needs. I support people with issues concerning low self-esteem, body image and appearance concerns, stress, worries, sadness, relationship issues and work-related stress and burnout. I also work with issues of identity and culture.
020 7046 0649 View 020 7046 0649
Photo of Dr Daisy Walton-Ellis, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Daisy Walton-Ellis
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Southwark, London SE1
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in EMDR, and use CFT, DBT, ACT, and Schema Therapy.
As a senior clinical psychologist, I specialise in working with people experiencing low self-esteem, difficulty managing strong emotions and caught in unhelpful or destructive patterns in their relationships. Experiencing negative and traumatic events can lead us to develop ways of coping which allowed us to survive at the time, but now keep us stuck and keep our problems going. I know how scary and shameful the idea of opening up about difficult experiences and self-destructive cycles can feel. I have a warm, genuine style, and make sure that you feel supported and never judged, so that you feel safe enough to do this work.
I am trained in EMDR, and use CFT, DBT, ACT, and Schema Therapy.
As a senior clinical psychologist, I specialise in working with people experiencing low self-esteem, difficulty managing strong emotions and caught in unhelpful or destructive patterns in their relationships. Experiencing negative and traumatic events can lead us to develop ways of coping which allowed us to survive at the time, but now keep us stuck and keep our problems going. I know how scary and shameful the idea of opening up about difficult experiences and self-destructive cycles can feel. I have a warm, genuine style, and make sure that you feel supported and never judged, so that you feel safe enough to do this work.
View
Photo of Jonny Say, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Jonny Say
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Online Only
I am an integrative therapist specialising in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) Therapy and Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) for a broad range of psychological difficulties.
I use ACT and CFT to work with a broad range of difficulties. I am a specialist therapist on ACT/ERP for OCD. I also have specialist training in Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Bereavement, stress based work issues, High Achievers, Addiction and Relationship challenges.
I am an integrative therapist specialising in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) Therapy and Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) for a broad range of psychological difficulties.
I use ACT and CFT to work with a broad range of difficulties. I am a specialist therapist on ACT/ERP for OCD. I also have specialist training in Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Bereavement, stress based work issues, High Achievers, Addiction and Relationship challenges.
View
Photo of Eirini Diathesopoulou, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Eirini Diathesopoulou
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Southwark, London SE1
Taking the first step toward therapy can feel daunting, but it’s an act of courage and self-care.
Welcome! Are you feeling stuck in cycles of anxiety, low mood, or challenging relationships? Imagine overcoming these barriers and stepping into a life filled with confidence and connection. I’m Eirini, an Integrative Psychotherapist/Psychologist, and I’m here to help. With a compassionate, person-centred approach, I support adults in breaking free from cycles of stress, trauma, and self-doubt. Together, we’ll build confidence, improve communication, and create a life of balance, connection, and fulfilment.
Taking the first step toward therapy can feel daunting, but it’s an act of courage and self-care.
Welcome! Are you feeling stuck in cycles of anxiety, low mood, or challenging relationships? Imagine overcoming these barriers and stepping into a life filled with confidence and connection. I’m Eirini, an Integrative Psychotherapist/Psychologist, and I’m here to help. With a compassionate, person-centred approach, I support adults in breaking free from cycles of stress, trauma, and self-doubt. Together, we’ll build confidence, improve communication, and create a life of balance, connection, and fulfilment.
020 8103 9033 View 020 8103 9033
Photo of Dr Ritu Sethi, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Dr Ritu Sethi
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Southwark, London SE1
I have experience of delivering a range of different therapeutic interventions including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic therapy, Person-centred Therapy, Systemic therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT) and relational approaches including Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT).
I am a Chartered Counselling Psychologist, registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and British Psychological Society (BPS). Whatever the challenges you may be experiencing, I strive to foster a safe, respectful, and non-judgemental space, where you feel able to talk freely about your experiences. I endeavour to support you to work towards personal growth, develop resilience and feel empowered to break free from recurring patterns, to create lasting meaningful change. I have a deep passion and commitment to enable people to feel heard, gain a better understanding of the self and navigate life’s challenges.
I have experience of delivering a range of different therapeutic interventions including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic therapy, Person-centred Therapy, Systemic therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT) and relational approaches including Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT).
I am a Chartered Counselling Psychologist, registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and British Psychological Society (BPS). Whatever the challenges you may be experiencing, I strive to foster a safe, respectful, and non-judgemental space, where you feel able to talk freely about your experiences. I endeavour to support you to work towards personal growth, develop resilience and feel empowered to break free from recurring patterns, to create lasting meaningful change. I have a deep passion and commitment to enable people to feel heard, gain a better understanding of the self and navigate life’s challenges.
020 4572 4049 View 020 4572 4049
Photo of Dr Stef Panescu, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Stef Panescu
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Southwark, London SE1
Connecting with the body opens a route to self- acceptance, and I will draw on experiential techniques to enable this.
Are you going through major transitions and life changes? Is the post-pandemic world increasingly baffling and anxiety provoking? Do you want to let go of self-defeating patterns, learn to tolerate discomfort and cope with uncertainty?
Connecting with the body opens a route to self- acceptance, and I will draw on experiential techniques to enable this.
Are you going through major transitions and life changes? Is the post-pandemic world increasingly baffling and anxiety provoking? Do you want to let go of self-defeating patterns, learn to tolerate discomfort and cope with uncertainty?
020 4538 2995 View 020 4538 2995
Photo of Dr Cristian A Nica, Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Dr Cristian A Nica
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Southwark, London SE1
Providing services for individuals, couples and families beginning from eclectic CBT interventions ( ACT, DBT, ST) - the most effective and intuitive psychological framework.
My academic background allows me to wear the scientist practitioner's hat across contexts. I provide psychotherapy, counselling, coaching as well as organisational consultancy. An evidence-based approach will emphasize the best course of treatment, making sure you are able to acquire relevant skills you can easily transfer in your daily life.
Providing services for individuals, couples and families beginning from eclectic CBT interventions ( ACT, DBT, ST) - the most effective and intuitive psychological framework.
My academic background allows me to wear the scientist practitioner's hat across contexts. I provide psychotherapy, counselling, coaching as well as organisational consultancy. An evidence-based approach will emphasize the best course of treatment, making sure you are able to acquire relevant skills you can easily transfer in your daily life.
07741 507447 View 07741 507447
Photo of Nick Stewart, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Nick Stewart
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Online Only
I find that approaches such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT) & Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) alongside CBT combined are often more effective and therapy needs to be at your pace to be successful.
I provide high quality Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) by zoom/phone or in person.
 i am a friendly & empathic therapist with over ten years' experience in talking therapies. For the past five years i have been working in a top London NHS talking therapies service. Throughout this time i’ve helped hundreds of people using evidence based treatment.
I find that approaches such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT) & Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) alongside CBT combined are often more effective and therapy needs to be at your pace to be successful.
I provide high quality Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) by zoom/phone or in person.
 i am a friendly & empathic therapist with over ten years' experience in talking therapies. For the past five years i have been working in a top London NHS talking therapies service. Throughout this time i’ve helped hundreds of people using evidence based treatment.
020 4538 9059 View 020 4538 9059
Photo of Leah Fung, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Leah Fung
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
2 Endorsed
Southwark, London SE1
I integrate principles of acceptance and commitment therapy, compassion focused therapy and polyvagal theory with CBT and EMDR.
I’m Leah, a BABCP accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist and qualified Yoga Teacher. I have completed Parts 1 & 2 EMDR training. I offer in person appointments in Guildford, London Bridge and by video. I work with adults and specialise in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and trauma related anxiety and depression such as social anxiety, panic disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, body dysmorphic disorder, health anxiety, emetophobia (vomit phobia), specific phobias, agoraphobia, generalised anxiety disorder. My approach to therapy is personalised, creative and attentive.
I integrate principles of acceptance and commitment therapy, compassion focused therapy and polyvagal theory with CBT and EMDR.
I’m Leah, a BABCP accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist and qualified Yoga Teacher. I have completed Parts 1 & 2 EMDR training. I offer in person appointments in Guildford, London Bridge and by video. I work with adults and specialise in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and trauma related anxiety and depression such as social anxiety, panic disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, body dysmorphic disorder, health anxiety, emetophobia (vomit phobia), specific phobias, agoraphobia, generalised anxiety disorder. My approach to therapy is personalised, creative and attentive.
01483 694470 View 01483 694470
Photo of Mirella Sgarbossa, Psychologist, MSc, CPsychol
Mirella Sgarbossa
Psychologist, MSc, CPsychol
Southwark, London SE1
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), helping individuals manage anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and trauma.
My ideal client is an Italian adult or young adult living in London or the UK, struggling with anxiety, stress, relationship issues, or past trauma. They seek a safe, non-judgmental space where they can express themselves and feel understood. Their goal is to regain balance, build confidence, and develop healthier coping strategies. They want to improve self-esteem, manage life transitions, and create more fulfilling relationships, ultimately achieving greater self-awareness and emotional well-being.
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), helping individuals manage anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and trauma.
My ideal client is an Italian adult or young adult living in London or the UK, struggling with anxiety, stress, relationship issues, or past trauma. They seek a safe, non-judgmental space where they can express themselves and feel understood. Their goal is to regain balance, build confidence, and develop healthier coping strategies. They want to improve self-esteem, manage life transitions, and create more fulfilling relationships, ultimately achieving greater self-awareness and emotional well-being.
020 4538 5687 View 020 4538 5687
Photo of Francesca Smith, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Francesca Smith
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
I utilise traditional CBT, EMDR & other approaches, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), compassion focused therapy, attachment-informed EMDR and Parts work, to offer a flexible and individualised treatment process.
I am a BABCP Accredited CBT Therapist and EMDR Practitioner. I provide 1:1 sessions to adults over 18 years of age, experiencing emotional and psychological difficulties, such as anxiety (including health anxiety, social anxiety and OCD), depression, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Complex PTSD, low self-esteem and work-related stress.
I utilise traditional CBT, EMDR & other approaches, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), compassion focused therapy, attachment-informed EMDR and Parts work, to offer a flexible and individualised treatment process.
I am a BABCP Accredited CBT Therapist and EMDR Practitioner. I provide 1:1 sessions to adults over 18 years of age, experiencing emotional and psychological difficulties, such as anxiety (including health anxiety, social anxiety and OCD), depression, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Complex PTSD, low self-esteem and work-related stress.
01603 578931 View 01603 578931
Photo of Dr Ghislaine Badawi, Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Ghislaine Badawi
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Serves Area
Through therapy, we outline goals for treatment, identify unhelpful patterns, work on the ability to regulate emotions and improve effectiveness in relationships while cultivating acceptance and mindfulness techniques.
My approach to psychotherapy is integrative drawing on Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Mentalization-Based Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). I aim to work collaboratively with each individual to tailor psychotherapy to their needs.
Through therapy, we outline goals for treatment, identify unhelpful patterns, work on the ability to regulate emotions and improve effectiveness in relationships while cultivating acceptance and mindfulness techniques.
My approach to psychotherapy is integrative drawing on Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Mentalization-Based Therapy and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). I aim to work collaboratively with each individual to tailor psychotherapy to their needs.
020 3835 4797 View 020 3835 4797
Photo of Lauren White, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Lauren White
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Online Only
I offer specialised therapeutic approaches including CBT, ACT and DBT.
At some time or another, we all need help in dealing with the difficulties that life can bring. Modern, fast-paced living is often overwhelming and so making choices that are beneficial for us becomes more challenging. We often find ourselves taking decisions that move us away from who we truly are and the life we want to lead. Through therapy we can explore what has brought you to where you are now, what is no longer working for you and how to facilitate a shift towards a preferred present and future.
I offer specialised therapeutic approaches including CBT, ACT and DBT.
At some time or another, we all need help in dealing with the difficulties that life can bring. Modern, fast-paced living is often overwhelming and so making choices that are beneficial for us becomes more challenging. We often find ourselves taking decisions that move us away from who we truly are and the life we want to lead. Through therapy we can explore what has brought you to where you are now, what is no longer working for you and how to facilitate a shift towards a preferred present and future.
07481 363529 View 07481 363529
Photo of Dr Omar Cummins, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Omar Cummins
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Online Only
I integrate CBT, ACT, CFT, EMDR, and Schema Therapy, drawing from over two decades of clinical experience to offer a personalised, flexible approach.
Struggling with stress, anxiety, or low mood? Feeling stuck or disconnected from who you want to be? I’m a chartered Clinical Psychologist with over 25 years’ experience helping people navigate life’s emotional challenges with clarity, compassion, and evidence-based support. I offer online therapy across the UK and internationally, working with adults facing issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, and life transitions. My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to your unique needs. Together, we’ll make sense of your difficulties and identify practical steps forward.
I integrate CBT, ACT, CFT, EMDR, and Schema Therapy, drawing from over two decades of clinical experience to offer a personalised, flexible approach.
Struggling with stress, anxiety, or low mood? Feeling stuck or disconnected from who you want to be? I’m a chartered Clinical Psychologist with over 25 years’ experience helping people navigate life’s emotional challenges with clarity, compassion, and evidence-based support. I offer online therapy across the UK and internationally, working with adults facing issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, and life transitions. My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to your unique needs. Together, we’ll make sense of your difficulties and identify practical steps forward.
View
Photo of Lauren Anne Calder, Psychologist, MA, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Lauren Anne Calder
Psychologist, MA, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Online Only
This is a necessary process in the path toward psychological maturity, humility and self- acceptance.
I have had a lifelong interest in the psychology of finding meaning and purpose in living and in how people adjust, face their challenges, cope and live in alignment to their dreams and values. Having learned mindfulness practice at a young age, I have a strong interest in the application of mindfulness based cognitive therapy to mental health
This is a necessary process in the path toward psychological maturity, humility and self- acceptance.
I have had a lifelong interest in the psychology of finding meaning and purpose in living and in how people adjust, face their challenges, cope and live in alignment to their dreams and values. Having learned mindfulness practice at a young age, I have a strong interest in the application of mindfulness based cognitive therapy to mental health
01223 657511 View 01223 657511
1
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.