Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Counselling in Shefford

Photo of Paul Penhey, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Paul Penhey
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
2 Endorsed
Shefford SG17
First, I believe that anyone can benefit from help around managing their mental health. Second, I want to to break down the stigma many people may feel around accessing support. I am qualified as a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist, and consider myself to be a reflective and analytical practitioner who will take time to explore the issues that are most important to you, without judgment. Whether you are sure or perhaps unsure about therapy we can work together to explore your goals, understand your mental health, both in the past and the present, and work out some strategies to either change or accept.
First, I believe that anyone can benefit from help around managing their mental health. Second, I want to to break down the stigma many people may feel around accessing support. I am qualified as a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist, and consider myself to be a reflective and analytical practitioner who will take time to explore the issues that are most important to you, without judgment. Whether you are sure or perhaps unsure about therapy we can work together to explore your goals, understand your mental health, both in the past and the present, and work out some strategies to either change or accept.
01462 415858 View 01462 415858
Photo of Dr Suman Prinjha, Psychotherapist, PhD, MBACP
Dr Suman Prinjha
Psychotherapist, PhD, MBACP
Shefford SG17
I specialise in anxiety, depression, relationship issues, cultural issues, work-related stress, and living with illness. We all face times when we feel confused, stuck or unsure about what to do. During these difficult or uncertain times talking to someone who listens, yet has distance from the issue, can really help. Asking for support is not a sign of weakness. It takes courage to focus on ourselves so that we can find solutions, make changes, and move forwards. I offer compassionate, non-judgmental, confidential yet proactive therapy in a safe and supportive space. I work in the evenings and weekends.
I specialise in anxiety, depression, relationship issues, cultural issues, work-related stress, and living with illness. We all face times when we feel confused, stuck or unsure about what to do. During these difficult or uncertain times talking to someone who listens, yet has distance from the issue, can really help. Asking for support is not a sign of weakness. It takes courage to focus on ourselves so that we can find solutions, make changes, and move forwards. I offer compassionate, non-judgmental, confidential yet proactive therapy in a safe and supportive space. I work in the evenings and weekends.
01767 660654 View 01767 660654
Photo of Paula Peden, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Paula Peden
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Serves Area
Do you keep falling into the same patterns that leave you feeling hurt, unheard or exhausted? Perhaps you find yourself people-pleasing, struggling with anxiety, depression or burnout, or feeling overwhelmed by work, relationships or family life. You may be navigating ADHD or autism, your own or someone close to you, wondering why life feels harder than it seems for others. Together we can make sense of these experiences, helping you understand yourself with greater compassion, break unhelpful patterns, and build greater clarity, confidence and connection.
Do you keep falling into the same patterns that leave you feeling hurt, unheard or exhausted? Perhaps you find yourself people-pleasing, struggling with anxiety, depression or burnout, or feeling overwhelmed by work, relationships or family life. You may be navigating ADHD or autism, your own or someone close to you, wondering why life feels harder than it seems for others. Together we can make sense of these experiences, helping you understand yourself with greater compassion, break unhelpful patterns, and build greater clarity, confidence and connection.
01525 659972 View 01525 659972
Photo of Dr Kim Coulson-Thaker, Psychologist, PsychD
Dr Kim Coulson-Thaker
Psychologist, PsychD
Serves Area
I use compassion focused, narrative therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy (a form of CBT) but will tailor my approach to you, always keeping your goals at the centre of our work together.
Whether you're looking to learn about yourself, navigating challenges related to your mental health, relationships, or life transitions, or seeking support to live more in line with your values, I provide a safe, non-judgemental space to explore you and work toward your goals.
I use compassion focused, narrative therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy (a form of CBT) but will tailor my approach to you, always keeping your goals at the centre of our work together.
Whether you're looking to learn about yourself, navigating challenges related to your mental health, relationships, or life transitions, or seeking support to live more in line with your values, I provide a safe, non-judgemental space to explore you and work toward your goals.
01234 386707 View 01234 386707

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Roxana White, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Roxana White
Psychotherapist, MBACP
My therapy approach is integrative, blending CBT, ACT, person-centred, and psychodynamic theory to help you work through your experiences.
Hello, I’m Roxana, a qualified integrative psychotherapist offering compassionate support for anxiety, OCD, and depression. I help individuals manage overwhelming thoughts, compulsive behaviours, and low mood by providing a safe, non-judgmental space to explore their experiences. Using a personalised approach, I support you in understanding patterns, building coping strategies, and creating meaningful change. I also work with trauma, stress, relationships, and personal development. Together, we’ll create a space where you feel heard, valued, and empowered to move forward with greater clarity, confidence, and emotional resilience.
My therapy approach is integrative, blending CBT, ACT, person-centred, and psychodynamic theory to help you work through your experiences.
Hello, I’m Roxana, a qualified integrative psychotherapist offering compassionate support for anxiety, OCD, and depression. I help individuals manage overwhelming thoughts, compulsive behaviours, and low mood by providing a safe, non-judgmental space to explore their experiences. Using a personalised approach, I support you in understanding patterns, building coping strategies, and creating meaningful change. I also work with trauma, stress, relationships, and personal development. Together, we’ll create a space where you feel heard, valued, and empowered to move forward with greater clarity, confidence, and emotional resilience.
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Photo of Warren Foot, Counsellor, MA, MNCPS Acc.
Warren Foot
Counsellor, MA, MNCPS Acc.
2 Endorsed
Bedford MK45
Hi, I’m Warren. I support people who might be feeling anxious, low, or stuck after difficult experiences and not sure how to move forward. Perhaps you’ve been carrying the impact of past trauma, struggling with confidence, or caught in unhelpful patterns that stop you from living the life you want. My clients often want to feel calmer, more in control, and free from self-doubt, anxiety or negative thoughts around past events. They want to feel ready to make choices that reflect who they really are.
Hi, I’m Warren. I support people who might be feeling anxious, low, or stuck after difficult experiences and not sure how to move forward. Perhaps you’ve been carrying the impact of past trauma, struggling with confidence, or caught in unhelpful patterns that stop you from living the life you want. My clients often want to feel calmer, more in control, and free from self-doubt, anxiety or negative thoughts around past events. They want to feel ready to make choices that reflect who they really are.
01525 664374 View 01525 664374
Photo of Dr Camilla Follows, Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Camilla Follows
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Online Only
I draw from a range of approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT), and psychodynamic principles.
If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or struggling with patterns that hold you back, I’m here to help you find clarity and confidence. I am a highly experienced Clinical Psychologist dedicated to offering compassionate, evidence-based support to individuals navigating life’s challenges. With over a decade of experience across the NHS and private practice, I bring a broad understanding of mental health and tailor therapy to your unique needs. My approach is warm, collaborative, and focused on creating a safe space where you feel heard and supported.
I draw from a range of approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT), and psychodynamic principles.
If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or struggling with patterns that hold you back, I’m here to help you find clarity and confidence. I am a highly experienced Clinical Psychologist dedicated to offering compassionate, evidence-based support to individuals navigating life’s challenges. With over a decade of experience across the NHS and private practice, I bring a broad understanding of mental health and tailor therapy to your unique needs. My approach is warm, collaborative, and focused on creating a safe space where you feel heard and supported.
01923 961743 View 01923 961743
Photo of Dr Lauren Patton, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Lauren Patton
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Towcester NN12
Therapies I tend to use include, ACT, DBT, CFT, CBT, and Narrative Therapy.
I'm Lauren, a Doctor of Clinical Psychology. I'm here to listen and understand you, your life, and what you are going through, in a warm, friendly atmosphere. Whether you're an adult, teenager or child, I can work with you to help positively change your life in a way that's meaningful to you. We can focus on issues such as stress, anxiety, low mood, trauma, bereavement and loss, relationships, emotional difficulties, or living with a medical condition. Therapy isn't always about focusing on difficulties either, talking on a regular basis can be helpful to process, understand and change any area of your life.
Therapies I tend to use include, ACT, DBT, CFT, CBT, and Narrative Therapy.
I'm Lauren, a Doctor of Clinical Psychology. I'm here to listen and understand you, your life, and what you are going through, in a warm, friendly atmosphere. Whether you're an adult, teenager or child, I can work with you to help positively change your life in a way that's meaningful to you. We can focus on issues such as stress, anxiety, low mood, trauma, bereavement and loss, relationships, emotional difficulties, or living with a medical condition. Therapy isn't always about focusing on difficulties either, talking on a regular basis can be helpful to process, understand and change any area of your life.
01977 803491 View 01977 803491
Photo of Dr Maisha Murshed, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Maisha Murshed
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Hitchin SG4
I am a HCPC registered Clinical Psychologist, I have experience working in helping clients with anxiety disorders, depression, relational issues, trauma and family conflicts. I believe you are the expert of your story and the aim of the work is assisting you in taking the steps towards change. I am here to support and empower people in that journey, walking alongside them. My clinical experience spans across post natal services, IAPT, Specialist CAMHS and private practice. I offer private therapy via RDA Psychology Practice in Hitchin, Ware and Online.
I am a HCPC registered Clinical Psychologist, I have experience working in helping clients with anxiety disorders, depression, relational issues, trauma and family conflicts. I believe you are the expert of your story and the aim of the work is assisting you in taking the steps towards change. I am here to support and empower people in that journey, walking alongside them. My clinical experience spans across post natal services, IAPT, Specialist CAMHS and private practice. I offer private therapy via RDA Psychology Practice in Hitchin, Ware and Online.
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Photo of Joe Carter, Counsellor, MBACP
Joe Carter
Counsellor, MBACP
Online Only
So, we have many ways to make better sense of how life feels: Internal Family Systems, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, 12-Step, The Work, The I Ching, Neuroplasticity, Mindfulness, Meditation, Dreamwork, The Tangle; Integrative Counselling.
This is therapy and counselling. And this is more. I’ve found that our wellbeing can thrive with ongoing supportive structures to guide and inspire us. So, included in the therapy, I’ve curated and simplified the proven life approaches we explore together and centred them on-line, so you can return to them at any time. It’s called ‘The Bulb Booth'.
So, we have many ways to make better sense of how life feels: Internal Family Systems, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, 12-Step, The Work, The I Ching, Neuroplasticity, Mindfulness, Meditation, Dreamwork, The Tangle; Integrative Counselling.
This is therapy and counselling. And this is more. I’ve found that our wellbeing can thrive with ongoing supportive structures to guide and inspire us. So, included in the therapy, I’ve curated and simplified the proven life approaches we explore together and centred them on-line, so you can return to them at any time. It’s called ‘The Bulb Booth'.
028 9694 3391 View 028 9694 3391
Photo of Michelle Jermy, Psychotherapist, MSc, COSRT General
Michelle Jermy
Psychotherapist, MSc, COSRT General
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Perhaps you have found yourself wondering...... Where has my desire gone? Why don't I feel like myself anymore? Why has menopause changed me so much? Will sex always be painful? Why do I love my partner but feel disconnected from them? Has my illness changed my relationship forever? If these questions resonate with you, you are not alone. Together we will explore the emotional, physical and relational factors affecting your wellbeing so you can reconnect with yourself, your relationships and your intimate life. Contact Michelle - The Yoni Therapist for further details.
Perhaps you have found yourself wondering...... Where has my desire gone? Why don't I feel like myself anymore? Why has menopause changed me so much? Will sex always be painful? Why do I love my partner but feel disconnected from them? Has my illness changed my relationship forever? If these questions resonate with you, you are not alone. Together we will explore the emotional, physical and relational factors affecting your wellbeing so you can reconnect with yourself, your relationships and your intimate life. Contact Michelle - The Yoni Therapist for further details.
0113 467 8324 View 0113 467 8324
Photo of Samantha Jayne Byron, Psychotherapist, BACP
Samantha Jayne Byron
Psychotherapist, BACP
Serves Area
I draw on models such as CBT, ACT and Existential approaches, amongst others, where I not only help my clients find ways to cope with perpetuating distressing symptoms.
As a clinical psychotherapist,​ I have over 10 year’s experience of working with patients and clients with many different struggles and difficulties. Trained as an integrative therapist, I work in a unique way that is based on your own individual needs. I believe that everyone is different and not every modality suits everyone. I know only too well how difficult life can be, yet uniquely different, we all suffer pain and loss in many similar ways. I feel truly humbled to work in this field and would be honoured to support you. You are not alone.
I draw on models such as CBT, ACT and Existential approaches, amongst others, where I not only help my clients find ways to cope with perpetuating distressing symptoms.
As a clinical psychotherapist,​ I have over 10 year’s experience of working with patients and clients with many different struggles and difficulties. Trained as an integrative therapist, I work in a unique way that is based on your own individual needs. I believe that everyone is different and not every modality suits everyone. I know only too well how difficult life can be, yet uniquely different, we all suffer pain and loss in many similar ways. I feel truly humbled to work in this field and would be honoured to support you. You are not alone.
020 3984 8715 View 020 3984 8715
Photo of Dr Omar Cummins, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Omar Cummins
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
I integrate CBT, ACT, EMDR, CFT, and Schema Therapy, drawing from over two decades of clinical experience to offer a personalised, flexible approach.
Change is possible. You don’t have to stay stuck in the same painful cycles. If you’re living with trauma, anxiety, depression, or feeling disconnected from life and your potential, there is a way forward. I’m a Clinical Psychologist with 26 years’ experience helping clients move from stuckness to wellness and beyond.
I integrate CBT, ACT, EMDR, CFT, and Schema Therapy, drawing from over two decades of clinical experience to offer a personalised, flexible approach.
Change is possible. You don’t have to stay stuck in the same painful cycles. If you’re living with trauma, anxiety, depression, or feeling disconnected from life and your potential, there is a way forward. I’m a Clinical Psychologist with 26 years’ experience helping clients move from stuckness to wellness and beyond.
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Photo of Dr Elrika Erasmus, Psychologist, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Dr Elrika Erasmus
Psychologist, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Using approaches like Compassion-Focused Therapy, ACT, and coaching, I’ll help you uncover your strengths, reduce anxiety, and build confidence to create meaningful, lasting change.
Life is so beautiful, and life is so hard. Maybe, for you, it feels especially hard right now. On the outside, you might appear fine, but inside, you’re overwhelmed. Anxiety, overthinking, or self-doubt could be holding you back, making it hard to focus or set goals. Sleep may feel impossible, leaving you exhausted and unmotivated. You want clarity, calm, and to reconnect with what matters most. You’re ready for change, even if you’re unsure where to start.
Using approaches like Compassion-Focused Therapy, ACT, and coaching, I’ll help you uncover your strengths, reduce anxiety, and build confidence to create meaningful, lasting change.
Life is so beautiful, and life is so hard. Maybe, for you, it feels especially hard right now. On the outside, you might appear fine, but inside, you’re overwhelmed. Anxiety, overthinking, or self-doubt could be holding you back, making it hard to focus or set goals. Sleep may feel impossible, leaving you exhausted and unmotivated. You want clarity, calm, and to reconnect with what matters most. You’re ready for change, even if you’re unsure where to start.
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Photo of Sara Bentwood, Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol
Sara Bentwood
Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol
London N20
I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years NHS experience providing highly specialist psychological assessment, formulation and interventions to both children and adolescents, other family members including siblings and parents/carers, as well as adults. I have a great deal of experience working with psychological difficulties such as anxiety including OCD, panic attacks, phobias and social anxiety; depression, low self-esteem and poor body image; behaviour difficulties, anger management, school issues such as bullying and family difficulties as well as difficulties with feeding and sleep.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years NHS experience providing highly specialist psychological assessment, formulation and interventions to both children and adolescents, other family members including siblings and parents/carers, as well as adults. I have a great deal of experience working with psychological difficulties such as anxiety including OCD, panic attacks, phobias and social anxiety; depression, low self-esteem and poor body image; behaviour difficulties, anger management, school issues such as bullying and family difficulties as well as difficulties with feeding and sleep.
020 4538 0224 View 020 4538 0224
Photo of Nisha Gupta, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Nisha Gupta
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Serves Area
You might be feeling overwhelmed, stuck in repeating patterns, or unsure why the same difficulties keep resurfacing despite your best efforts. When something feels persistently difficult — whether that’s anxiety, low mood, trauma or relationship strain — it can be hard to know where to begin. I work with children, young people, adults and families to make sense of what may be happening beneath the surface — not just to ease symptoms, but to deepen understanding and support meaningful, lasting change. I have extensive experience supporting those affected by marginalisation, discrimination, exclusion and identity-related challenges.
You might be feeling overwhelmed, stuck in repeating patterns, or unsure why the same difficulties keep resurfacing despite your best efforts. When something feels persistently difficult — whether that’s anxiety, low mood, trauma or relationship strain — it can be hard to know where to begin. I work with children, young people, adults and families to make sense of what may be happening beneath the surface — not just to ease symptoms, but to deepen understanding and support meaningful, lasting change. I have extensive experience supporting those affected by marginalisation, discrimination, exclusion and identity-related challenges.
020 3835 5947 View 020 3835 5947
Photo of Dr Stephanie Casey, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Stephanie Casey
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Hi, I'm Steph, a Cambridge-based Chartered Clinical Psychologist, registered with HCPC and BPS. I started my career in psychology 15 years ago and have over 10 years of experience in the NHS. I offer support to individuals, couples and families living with complex mental health difficulties or those who have experienced significant life events where therapy may be helpful. I specialise in low mood, anxiety, and trauma and have a passion for supporting those with neurodiversity. I have further specialist training to offer assessment and diagnosis of autism and ADHD in children and adults, helping you to gain clarity and answers.
Hi, I'm Steph, a Cambridge-based Chartered Clinical Psychologist, registered with HCPC and BPS. I started my career in psychology 15 years ago and have over 10 years of experience in the NHS. I offer support to individuals, couples and families living with complex mental health difficulties or those who have experienced significant life events where therapy may be helpful. I specialise in low mood, anxiety, and trauma and have a passion for supporting those with neurodiversity. I have further specialist training to offer assessment and diagnosis of autism and ADHD in children and adults, helping you to gain clarity and answers.
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Photo of Nabila El-Zanaty, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Nabila El-Zanaty
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
1 Endorsed
Watford WD24
Thank you for visiting my page and taking the step to access support. Having worked with a wide range of clients experiencing difficulties with their emotional wellbeing, I have developed skills in recognising the sources of problems and how to work on solving them. We would work together in reaching your goals and I encourage a holistic and non-judgemental space that takes into account your individual needs and wants.
Thank you for visiting my page and taking the step to access support. Having worked with a wide range of clients experiencing difficulties with their emotional wellbeing, I have developed skills in recognising the sources of problems and how to work on solving them. We would work together in reaching your goals and I encourage a holistic and non-judgemental space that takes into account your individual needs and wants.
020 3962 0608 View 020 3962 0608
Photo of Peter Craig Dinsmore, Psychotherapist, BACP
Peter Craig Dinsmore
Psychotherapist, BACP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a very experienced and professional therapist with over twelve thousand client contact hours behind me in individual, couples and group work. I feel my experience coupled with my life experiences makes me the person and the therapist I am today. My training in the person-centred approach (three years) and in Transactional Analysis (seven years) together with continuing professional and personal development and supervision give me a strong theoretical and experiential focus to bring to my client work. I work very much in a relational way (research indicates that the therapeutic relationship is key to positive therapy outcomes)
I am a very experienced and professional therapist with over twelve thousand client contact hours behind me in individual, couples and group work. I feel my experience coupled with my life experiences makes me the person and the therapist I am today. My training in the person-centred approach (three years) and in Transactional Analysis (seven years) together with continuing professional and personal development and supervision give me a strong theoretical and experiential focus to bring to my client work. I work very much in a relational way (research indicates that the therapeutic relationship is key to positive therapy outcomes)
0151 541 2512 View 0151 541 2512
Photo of Tara Gallagher, Counsellor, MBACP
Tara Gallagher
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
Many of the people I work with are thoughtful, capable and outwardly functioning, yet privately feel anxious, emotionally weighed down, or stuck in relationship patterns that don’t shift through insight alone. Since 2009, I've been committed to supporting clients in their healing journey by offering talking therapy, marriage counselling and conducting over 4000 successful EMDR sessions. Specialised training with Esther Perel enriches my marriage counselling approach, exploring issues like recurring arguments, struggles with intimacy and connection, emotional shutdowns.
Many of the people I work with are thoughtful, capable and outwardly functioning, yet privately feel anxious, emotionally weighed down, or stuck in relationship patterns that don’t shift through insight alone. Since 2009, I've been committed to supporting clients in their healing journey by offering talking therapy, marriage counselling and conducting over 4000 successful EMDR sessions. Specialised training with Esther Perel enriches my marriage counselling approach, exploring issues like recurring arguments, struggles with intimacy and connection, emotional shutdowns.
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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.