Photo of Karen J Van Zuiden, Marriage & Family Therapist in 49686, MI
Karen J Van Zuiden
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Traverse City, MI 49686  (Online Only)
I am a strength based therapist. You are the author of your story. I consider it an honor to help people on their journeys and reframe what keeps people from being their best selves. It isn't about surviving, it is about thriving. I work with many different people from age 18 to 60. I have worked with first responders, people that work in the healthcare field, and other therapists. I also work with families facing crisis and/or illnesses. When working with teens and their families, understanding what is normal behavior and what isn't while supporting everyone has worked with many families.
I am a strength based therapist. You are the author of your story. I consider it an honor to help people on their journeys and reframe what keeps people from being their best selves. It isn't about surviving, it is about thriving. I work with many different people from age 18 to 60. I have worked with first responders, people that work in the healthcare field, and other therapists. I also work with families facing crisis and/or illnesses. When working with teens and their families, understanding what is normal behavior and what isn't while supporting everyone has worked with many families.
(231) 399-8820 View (231) 399-8820

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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.