Photo of Gale Dollard, Licensed Professional Counselor in 21228, MD
Gale Dollard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, CCTP, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21228  (Online Only)
I am an experienced Maryland licensed therapist. I have many years working with adults in various stages of life. The people I have helped were living with severe trauma, grief, addiction, divorce, career indecisions, relationship, life adjustment, body image and family problems. When left unresolved, these issues can lead to depression, anxiety, panic and generalized sadness or uneasiness. However, there is help. You don't need to live in that uncomfortable and painful state.
I am an experienced Maryland licensed therapist. I have many years working with adults in various stages of life. The people I have helped were living with severe trauma, grief, addiction, divorce, career indecisions, relationship, life adjustment, body image and family problems. When left unresolved, these issues can lead to depression, anxiety, panic and generalized sadness or uneasiness. However, there is help. You don't need to live in that uncomfortable and painful state.
(443) 965-9883 View (443) 965-9883
Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapists

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.