Michelle Scoggins
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93306
By addressing the root of these challenges, we work towards alleviating anxiety and depression, fostering a path to genuine self-acceptance and a more fulfilling life.
Hi I am Dr. Michelle Scoggins (CA29566) and I'm your compassionate guide on a journey of self-discovery and resilience. My approach is all about empowering you to navigate life's challenges, fostering authentic connections, and ensuring you leave each session with tools to enhance your emotional well-being. In my work with clients grappling with anxiety and depression, we often uncover it is all about not authentically living. I create a safe space for exploration and self-discovery. Together, we navigate the layers of self-expression, aiming to unveil and embrace their authentic selves.
By addressing the root of these challenges, we work towards alleviating anxiety and depression, fostering a path to genuine self-acceptance and a more fulfilling life.
Hi I am Dr. Michelle Scoggins (CA29566) and I'm your compassionate guide on a journey of self-discovery and resilience. My approach is all about empowering you to navigate life's challenges, fostering authentic connections, and ensuring you leave each session with tools to enhance your emotional well-being. In my work with clients grappling with anxiety and depression, we often uncover it is all about not authentically living. I create a safe space for exploration and self-discovery. Together, we navigate the layers of self-expression, aiming to unveil and embrace their authentic selves.
(661) 464-7531 View (661) 464-7531
Photo of Jeanette Shin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Jeanette Shin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93306
My name is Jeanette Shin, LCSW - I believe we are capable of healing ourselves and can develop the ability to find self-compassion and the potential to thrive. I have worked mostly with adults, especially older adults, and feel able to work with clients dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, aging, grief, and bereavement. I approach clients on a mindfulness and client centered focus, with elements of CBT, DBT, ACT, Motivational Interviewing, and spirituality as needed.
My name is Jeanette Shin, LCSW - I believe we are capable of healing ourselves and can develop the ability to find self-compassion and the potential to thrive. I have worked mostly with adults, especially older adults, and feel able to work with clients dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, aging, grief, and bereavement. I approach clients on a mindfulness and client centered focus, with elements of CBT, DBT, ACT, Motivational Interviewing, and spirituality as needed.
(661) 927-0949 View (661) 927-0949
Photo of Emily Campbell, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in Kern County, CA
Emily Campbell
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MACC, APCC, CDP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93314  (Online Only)
My clients seek support for overcoming trauma and PTSD, grappling with codependency, and enhancing coping skills. They navigate life transitions, manage anxiety and depression, and may be dealing with relationship or self-esteem issues. They may be individuals with ADHD or OCD who are looking for strategies to manage their symptoms. Seniors and those with intellectual disabilities can seek deeper understanding. LGBTQ+ clients may explore identity and acceptance. Each person, regardless of their challenge, desires to find inner peace, resilience, and joy. My goal is to provide a safe space for clients to come as they are.
My clients seek support for overcoming trauma and PTSD, grappling with codependency, and enhancing coping skills. They navigate life transitions, manage anxiety and depression, and may be dealing with relationship or self-esteem issues. They may be individuals with ADHD or OCD who are looking for strategies to manage their symptoms. Seniors and those with intellectual disabilities can seek deeper understanding. LGBTQ+ clients may explore identity and acceptance. Each person, regardless of their challenge, desires to find inner peace, resilience, and joy. My goal is to provide a safe space for clients to come as they are.
(661) 279-3144 View (661) 279-3144
Photo of Roe Sanchez, LMFT, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Roe Sanchez, LMFT, RPT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Waitlist for new clients
I use EMDR (eye movement desensitization&reprocessing), ACT (acceptance&commitment therapy) and CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy).
Do you constantly worry about different things? are you tired of overthinking? Do you want to process a painful life event that has left you hurt or afraid? Do you want to make sense of how to align with your spiritual beliefs? Are you wondering why your relationship is not working out or if you should stay together? You've had enough of the same patterns and are ready to make some changes in your life. Does your child have frequent emotional outbursts? Does your child/ teen have social anxiety? I see adults, teens, and children who deal w/ anxiety, panic attacks, trauma, phobias, selective mutism, low self esteem, grief, and ADHD.
I use EMDR (eye movement desensitization&reprocessing), ACT (acceptance&commitment therapy) and CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy).
Do you constantly worry about different things? are you tired of overthinking? Do you want to process a painful life event that has left you hurt or afraid? Do you want to make sense of how to align with your spiritual beliefs? Are you wondering why your relationship is not working out or if you should stay together? You've had enough of the same patterns and are ready to make some changes in your life. Does your child have frequent emotional outbursts? Does your child/ teen have social anxiety? I see adults, teens, and children who deal w/ anxiety, panic attacks, trauma, phobias, selective mutism, low self esteem, grief, and ADHD.
(661) 593-4055 View (661) 593-4055
Photo of Candice Omar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Candice Omar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93306
I utilize a variety of approaches including Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment therapy.
My name is Candice Givens Omar, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing virtual therapy for those in California and North Carolina. My main focus areas are with adults experiencing navigating mood disorders, life transitions, and/or navigating through past trauma. I use an electric and collaborative approach to therapy using both evidence-based practices and non-traditional treatment methods. My client focus ranges from younger to older adults who are navigating life transitions or are dealing with the impacts of mood disorders, generational trauma, and workplace stress.
I utilize a variety of approaches including Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment therapy.
My name is Candice Givens Omar, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing virtual therapy for those in California and North Carolina. My main focus areas are with adults experiencing navigating mood disorders, life transitions, and/or navigating through past trauma. I use an electric and collaborative approach to therapy using both evidence-based practices and non-traditional treatment methods. My client focus ranges from younger to older adults who are navigating life transitions or are dealing with the impacts of mood disorders, generational trauma, and workplace stress.
(661) 449-2112 View (661) 449-2112
Photo of Rachel Page, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Rachel Page
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93307
Hi! My name is Rachel, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I have been practicing therapy since 2010 and am passionate about helping others. I help people with adolescent/teen issues, grief, self esteem, trauma and PTSD, job stress, and more. I have worked in inpatient and outpatient settings, including drug and alcohol rehabilitation, with adolescents in schools, and with domestic violence services. I practice Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Narrative Therapy, and Solution-focused therapy. Using mindfulness and ACT skills, I explore the thoughts and beliefs that create stagnation.
Hi! My name is Rachel, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I have been practicing therapy since 2010 and am passionate about helping others. I help people with adolescent/teen issues, grief, self esteem, trauma and PTSD, job stress, and more. I have worked in inpatient and outpatient settings, including drug and alcohol rehabilitation, with adolescents in schools, and with domestic violence services. I practice Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Narrative Therapy, and Solution-focused therapy. Using mindfulness and ACT skills, I explore the thoughts and beliefs that create stagnation.
(661) 732-2011 View (661) 732-2011
Photo of Andrea Herskowitz, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Kern County, CA
Andrea Herskowitz
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93312
I integrate evidence-based clinical practices into this such as acceptance & commitment therapy (ACT), mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MbCBT), and attachment assessment.
I will partner with you in addressing your concerns in a safe, supportive, and confidential space. I offer psychodynamic talk therapy with a holistic approach so we can do the work of identifying your sources of pain and stress response patterns while also helping you feel worthy of more joy, hope, and connectedness in your life now. I offer both individual and couples therapy with an optional adjunctive perinatal focus for anyone newly on the parenting or reproductive journey. Let's turn down the pressure and get you feeling good in yourself again.
I integrate evidence-based clinical practices into this such as acceptance & commitment therapy (ACT), mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MbCBT), and attachment assessment.
I will partner with you in addressing your concerns in a safe, supportive, and confidential space. I offer psychodynamic talk therapy with a holistic approach so we can do the work of identifying your sources of pain and stress response patterns while also helping you feel worthy of more joy, hope, and connectedness in your life now. I offer both individual and couples therapy with an optional adjunctive perinatal focus for anyone newly on the parenting or reproductive journey. Let's turn down the pressure and get you feeling good in yourself again.
(661) 215-8236 View (661) 215-8236
Photo of Natalie Rhyne, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Natalie Rhyne
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93305
My goal is to facilitate an environment of acceptance and safety.
My name is Natalie Rhyne, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist 97859. I believe the therapeutic space should provide both containment and flexibility, and best serves its clients in a context of honoring the unique needs with which each individual presents. I work with children, adolescents, and adults - in individual, conjoint, and family settings. I support a range of conditions including mood disorders, trauma, and intrapersonal and interpersonal conflicts.
My goal is to facilitate an environment of acceptance and safety.
My name is Natalie Rhyne, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist 97859. I believe the therapeutic space should provide both containment and flexibility, and best serves its clients in a context of honoring the unique needs with which each individual presents. I work with children, adolescents, and adults - in individual, conjoint, and family settings. I support a range of conditions including mood disorders, trauma, and intrapersonal and interpersonal conflicts.
(661) 320-8976 View (661) 320-8976
Photo of Teri-Lee Hedman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Teri-Lee Hedman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tehachapi, CA 93561
n my sessions, I take an out-of-the-box approach anchored in the traditional therapy methods of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and a Jungian orientation.
Hello, my name is Teri Hedman and I am a licensed clinical social worker. I take a holistic approach to healing and I would love to partner with you on your journey. I have a strong background in supporting folks navigating trauma and addiction. I believe whether or not we have a substance addiction, we all have something to “recover” from in the epic journey that is our life. I have found that in this process, we also can discover and reclaim our true selves and reorient to living a thriving life. I also have specialized training focused on supporting women, especially in the postpartum period and other transitions.
n my sessions, I take an out-of-the-box approach anchored in the traditional therapy methods of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and a Jungian orientation.
Hello, my name is Teri Hedman and I am a licensed clinical social worker. I take a holistic approach to healing and I would love to partner with you on your journey. I have a strong background in supporting folks navigating trauma and addiction. I believe whether or not we have a substance addiction, we all have something to “recover” from in the epic journey that is our life. I have found that in this process, we also can discover and reclaim our true selves and reorient to living a thriving life. I also have specialized training focused on supporting women, especially in the postpartum period and other transitions.
(510) 939-9150 View (510) 939-9150
Photo of Rahel Schmid-Price, Psychologist in Kern County, CA
Rahel Schmid-Price
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93304
I have experience working with a broad variety of treatment approaches and modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, mindfulness-based therapy, motivational interviewing, acceptance-commitment therapy (ACT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), EMDR, and internal family systems (IFS).
Hi, I am Dr. Rahel Price, a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience providing mental health services to diverse populations in a variety of community and forensic settings. The main focus areas of my current practice include trauma, stress, PTSD, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, and self-harm. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them identify the goals they want to work towards in therapy. These goals can shift and be built on throughout the therapy process.
I have experience working with a broad variety of treatment approaches and modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, mindfulness-based therapy, motivational interviewing, acceptance-commitment therapy (ACT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), EMDR, and internal family systems (IFS).
Hi, I am Dr. Rahel Price, a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience providing mental health services to diverse populations in a variety of community and forensic settings. The main focus areas of my current practice include trauma, stress, PTSD, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, and self-harm. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them identify the goals they want to work towards in therapy. These goals can shift and be built on throughout the therapy process.
(323) 593-4830 View (323) 593-4830
Photo of Jullian Lee, Psychologist in Kern County, CA
Jullian Lee
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Hi. I'm Dr. Jullian Lee, I received my Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology in 2017. My therapeutic approach utilizes Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and mentalization. While my relational approach with clients is Client Centered. I have extensive experience working with substance dependence, trauma, OCD, and teens. I am also EMDR trained. I typically work with young adults, teens, and adults. I treat PTSD, depression, anxiety, OCD, substance dependence, and family/social issues.
Hi. I'm Dr. Jullian Lee, I received my Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology in 2017. My therapeutic approach utilizes Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and mentalization. While my relational approach with clients is Client Centered. I have extensive experience working with substance dependence, trauma, OCD, and teens. I am also EMDR trained. I typically work with young adults, teens, and adults. I treat PTSD, depression, anxiety, OCD, substance dependence, and family/social issues.
(559) 206-4875 View (559) 206-4875
Photo of Positive Psychology by Zion Technology , Counselor in Kern County, CA
Positive Psychology by Zion Technology
Counselor, PPP
Verified Verified
California City, CA 93504  (Online Only)
Experience Peace through Mindfulness! With expert personal support- increase happiness enjoy life open your creativity & unlock your potential. Resources- meditation and sleep exercise, clinical studies character strength survey. free 15 minute consultation also learn to organize thoughts and emotions, achieve goals with resilience, overcome irrational thoughts, denial and avoidance & replace with acceptance and action, experience spiritual growth and maturity, combat depression irrational thoughts and sadness. Increase communication skills with others also relationships. Learn techniques to increase happiness and achieve your goals
Experience Peace through Mindfulness! With expert personal support- increase happiness enjoy life open your creativity & unlock your potential. Resources- meditation and sleep exercise, clinical studies character strength survey. free 15 minute consultation also learn to organize thoughts and emotions, achieve goals with resilience, overcome irrational thoughts, denial and avoidance & replace with acceptance and action, experience spiritual growth and maturity, combat depression irrational thoughts and sadness. Increase communication skills with others also relationships. Learn techniques to increase happiness and achieve your goals
(541) 262-0799 View (541) 262-0799
Photo of Melizza Esperanza, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Melizza Esperanza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Delano, CA 93215
I'm Melizza Esperanza, a licensed clinical social worker based in San Diego. With a compassionate and strengths-based approach, I specialize in supporting adults navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, complex family dynamics, difficult transitions, terminal illness, and caregiver stress. I draw from modalities like mindfulness practices, EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to promote healing and self-awareness. With 15 years of social work experience, I have worked with adults from age 18 - 114.
I'm Melizza Esperanza, a licensed clinical social worker based in San Diego. With a compassionate and strengths-based approach, I specialize in supporting adults navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, complex family dynamics, difficult transitions, terminal illness, and caregiver stress. I draw from modalities like mindfulness practices, EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to promote healing and self-awareness. With 15 years of social work experience, I have worked with adults from age 18 - 114.
(626) 507-6720 View (626) 507-6720
Photo of William Gordon, Psychologist in Kern County, CA
William Gordon
Psychologist, CP
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93308
My most common theoretical approaches include Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), with a strong emphasis on Spirituality as a unifying strength.
Hello, I am Dr. William Gordon. I hold a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and a Master's degree in Forensic Psychology, with over 35 years of clinical experience working with a wide range of mental health concerns, including but not limited to, Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, Trauma, and other Stress-Related Disorders, Attention Deficit Disorders, Personality Disorders, and a wide range of addictive disorders.
My most common theoretical approaches include Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy ( DBT), and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), with a strong emphasis on Spirituality as a unifying strength.
Hello, I am Dr. William Gordon. I hold a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and a Master's degree in Forensic Psychology, with over 35 years of clinical experience working with a wide range of mental health concerns, including but not limited to, Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, Trauma, and other Stress-Related Disorders, Attention Deficit Disorders, Personality Disorders, and a wide range of addictive disorders.
(916) 432-2695 View (916) 432-2695
Photo of Michelle Watson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Michelle Watson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93308
My name is Michelle Watson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I specialize in the treatment of addiction and help people recover from depression, anxiety, co-dependency, trauma, and dysfunctional behavior that results from trauma. I especially enjoy working with Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACA) and dysfunctional families. I take a strength-based and client-centered approach to therapy with a focus on skill-building. I'm trained in motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and cognitive processing therapy.
My name is Michelle Watson, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of California. I specialize in the treatment of addiction and help people recover from depression, anxiety, co-dependency, trauma, and dysfunctional behavior that results from trauma. I especially enjoy working with Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACA) and dysfunctional families. I take a strength-based and client-centered approach to therapy with a focus on skill-building. I'm trained in motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and cognitive processing therapy.
(661) 410-7476 View (661) 410-7476
Photo of Amarilys Reyes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Amarilys Reyes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93308
Hi! Ser padre/madre, mujer, hija/hijo y pareja en esta nueva etapa de tu vida puede ser una tarea muy difícil, pero no tiene que enfrentarla solo. Me alegro que haya llegado hasta mi para poder brindarle mi ayuda. I am a Latinx, mother, educator, Bilingual Spanish Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Clinical Supervisor in the state of California.
Hi! Ser padre/madre, mujer, hija/hijo y pareja en esta nueva etapa de tu vida puede ser una tarea muy difícil, pero no tiene que enfrentarla solo. Me alegro que haya llegado hasta mi para poder brindarle mi ayuda. I am a Latinx, mother, educator, Bilingual Spanish Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Clinical Supervisor in the state of California.
(661) 486-5262 View (661) 486-5262
Photo of Courtney Samari Rayne, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Courtney Samari Rayne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93313
Accepting New In-Person and Tele-health Patients! It is my passion to work with people who are interested in a holistic approach to self healing and empowerment. It is important to me that I offer clients a sacred space to share, authentic connection, and honest & direct communication. It is my goal to support people in their personal exploration and growth through therapeutic counseling, breath work, relaxation training, the practice of somatic awareness and meditation. The methods I use also have very strong response to treatment for individuals with a history of trauma.
Accepting New In-Person and Tele-health Patients! It is my passion to work with people who are interested in a holistic approach to self healing and empowerment. It is important to me that I offer clients a sacred space to share, authentic connection, and honest & direct communication. It is my goal to support people in their personal exploration and growth through therapeutic counseling, breath work, relaxation training, the practice of somatic awareness and meditation. The methods I use also have very strong response to treatment for individuals with a history of trauma.
(661) 367-8493 View (661) 367-8493
Photo of Veronica Cardona, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Veronica Cardona
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309  (Online Only)
The journey through infertility and motherhood can be stressful and lonely. It often requires patience, perseverance, but above all HOPE. I want to empower and support you during this journey. Are you suspecting a problem because you have been trying to get pregnant without success? Have you been diagnosed with "infertility"? Are you considering IVF? Are you struggling with sustaining a pregnancy? Does your heart feel heavy with grief and sorrow over your loss and are ready for relief? Did you recently have a baby and are struggling with postpartum anxiety, depression or simply feeling overwhelmed? Reach out today. I can help you.
The journey through infertility and motherhood can be stressful and lonely. It often requires patience, perseverance, but above all HOPE. I want to empower and support you during this journey. Are you suspecting a problem because you have been trying to get pregnant without success? Have you been diagnosed with "infertility"? Are you considering IVF? Are you struggling with sustaining a pregnancy? Does your heart feel heavy with grief and sorrow over your loss and are ready for relief? Did you recently have a baby and are struggling with postpartum anxiety, depression or simply feeling overwhelmed? Reach out today. I can help you.
(661) 689-7682 View (661) 689-7682
Photo of Flower J Garcia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Flower J Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93301  (Online Only)
Therapy can be a way to get us back on track. I offer support and guidance with compassion. I believe in building a non-judgmental relationship with clients in order to reach autonomy, self-awareness, and empowerment.
Therapy can be a way to get us back on track. I offer support and guidance with compassion. I believe in building a non-judgmental relationship with clients in order to reach autonomy, self-awareness, and empowerment.
(661) 526-0640 View (661) 526-0640
Photo of Samuel Moore, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Samuel Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93306
I have been practicing as a therapist since 2015. I have worked with individuals who are suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, and attachment difficulties. I have extensive experience working with individuals who have suffered childhood abuse. I specialize in depression, anxiety, and trauma utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy and psychodynamic theory. I believe that if there is a leaky pipe in the ceiling, the best approach is to figure out what caused that pipe to leak and repair the traumatic experiences.
I have been practicing as a therapist since 2015. I have worked with individuals who are suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, and attachment difficulties. I have extensive experience working with individuals who have suffered childhood abuse. I specialize in depression, anxiety, and trauma utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy and psychodynamic theory. I believe that if there is a leaky pipe in the ceiling, the best approach is to figure out what caused that pipe to leak and repair the traumatic experiences.
(661) 760-2781 View (661) 760-2781

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.