Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapists in Cardiff, CA

Dr. Lindsay O'Shea
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Cardiff, CA 92007
You're worried about your child & exhausted from trying to figure out what will actually help. Maybe mornings feel stressful, homework turns into a nightly battle, or your child melts down over seemingly small things. Maybe your teen has become withdrawn, overwhelmed, constantly stressed, or impossible to reach.If you've tried everything and nothing seems to create lasting change, you're not alone. I help families understand what's happening beneath the behavior so we can address the root causes, strengthen connection, and create meaningful, lasting change - not just manage symptoms.
You're worried about your child & exhausted from trying to figure out what will actually help. Maybe mornings feel stressful, homework turns into a nightly battle, or your child melts down over seemingly small things. Maybe your teen has become withdrawn, overwhelmed, constantly stressed, or impossible to reach.If you've tried everything and nothing seems to create lasting change, you're not alone. I help families understand what's happening beneath the behavior so we can address the root causes, strengthen connection, and create meaningful, lasting change - not just manage symptoms.
(760) 825-2891 View (760) 825-2891
Dr. Sarah Levinson
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
Welcome to my practice! I'm Dr. Sarah Levinson, a dedicated clinical psychologist with a passion for helping teens, parents, and families overcome challenges and reclaim their lives. With a strong foundation in evidence-based therapies and clinical experience, I'm here to guide you towards a path of growth and recovery. My expertise lies in the treatment of anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and related disorders, and eating disorders. I am dedicated to helping teens and families break free from the grips of these challenges and reclaim their lives.
Welcome to my practice! I'm Dr. Sarah Levinson, a dedicated clinical psychologist with a passion for helping teens, parents, and families overcome challenges and reclaim their lives. With a strong foundation in evidence-based therapies and clinical experience, I'm here to guide you towards a path of growth and recovery. My expertise lies in the treatment of anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and related disorders, and eating disorders. I am dedicated to helping teens and families break free from the grips of these challenges and reclaim their lives.
(760) 316-1023 View (760) 316-1023
Jodi M LaDue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
We are living in uncertain and uneasy times. I believe that taking care of your mental health is a necessity. If you are struggling to navigate your emotions you are not alone. We are seeing a rise in anxiety, depression & conflict within relationships. Are you arguing with your partner/family/friends & struggling to find common ground, or holding resentments? Are you feeling more anxious & fearful or find yourself crying more often and not feeling like yourself?
We are living in uncertain and uneasy times. I believe that taking care of your mental health is a necessity. If you are struggling to navigate your emotions you are not alone. We are seeing a rise in anxiety, depression & conflict within relationships. Are you arguing with your partner/family/friends & struggling to find common ground, or holding resentments? Are you feeling more anxious & fearful or find yourself crying more often and not feeling like yourself?
(760) 377-8741 View (760) 377-8741
Maria Montes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Blending EMDR, ACT, CBT, and mindfulness-based strategies, I guide clients through a process of understanding and releasing the coping tools that no longer serve them.
Feeling overwhelmed, on edge, or emotionally stuck can make even the simplest tasks feel exhausting. You might be constantly bracing for something bad to happen, replaying painful memories, or feeling detached from yourself or those around you. I help clients recognize that these patterns—though painful—are often the result of remarkable resilience in the face of past trauma. I hold a Master’s in Social Work from Lady of the Lake University (2019), and my approach reframes these so-called “symptoms” as survival strategies that once protected you but now interfere with the life you want to lead.
Blending EMDR, ACT, CBT, and mindfulness-based strategies, I guide clients through a process of understanding and releasing the coping tools that no longer serve them.
Feeling overwhelmed, on edge, or emotionally stuck can make even the simplest tasks feel exhausting. You might be constantly bracing for something bad to happen, replaying painful memories, or feeling detached from yourself or those around you. I help clients recognize that these patterns—though painful—are often the result of remarkable resilience in the face of past trauma. I hold a Master’s in Social Work from Lady of the Lake University (2019), and my approach reframes these so-called “symptoms” as survival strategies that once protected you but now interfere with the life you want to lead.
(858) 333-7536 View (858) 333-7536

More Therapists Nearby

Robyn Reddell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
13 years as a licensed LCSW, trained in DBT, ACT, Attachment-Based & Trauma-Focused therapy.
I'm Robyn, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 13 years of experience helping adults navigate some of life's most demanding roles: being a parent, a partner, a provider, and sometimes all three at once. I work with men who are ready to go deeper — whether that means becoming more present as a father, strengthening their relationships, or finally making sense of experiences they've carried for years. I also work with parents navigating the weight of family stress, conflict, and trauma that gets passed down in ways we don't always recognize.
13 years as a licensed LCSW, trained in DBT, ACT, Attachment-Based & Trauma-Focused therapy.
I'm Robyn, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 13 years of experience helping adults navigate some of life's most demanding roles: being a parent, a partner, a provider, and sometimes all three at once. I work with men who are ready to go deeper — whether that means becoming more present as a father, strengthening their relationships, or finally making sense of experiences they've carried for years. I also work with parents navigating the weight of family stress, conflict, and trauma that gets passed down in ways we don't always recognize.
(619) 815-5645 View (619) 815-5645
Ayoung Choi
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
Do you often feel overwhelmed by persistent anxiety, social pressures, or lack the motivation and joy you used to feel? Are you struggling to manage relationships, navigate a major life transition, or simply feel like yourself? As a therapist specializing in dysfunctional thought and behavior patterns that lead to depression, anxiety, low-self esteem, etc., I work with neurodivergent individuals, teenagers, and individuals from diverse backgrounds. Together, we can develop a plan to achieve personal growth and regain balance and meaning into your life.
Do you often feel overwhelmed by persistent anxiety, social pressures, or lack the motivation and joy you used to feel? Are you struggling to manage relationships, navigate a major life transition, or simply feel like yourself? As a therapist specializing in dysfunctional thought and behavior patterns that lead to depression, anxiety, low-self esteem, etc., I work with neurodivergent individuals, teenagers, and individuals from diverse backgrounds. Together, we can develop a plan to achieve personal growth and regain balance and meaning into your life.
(619) 853-2617 View (619) 853-2617
Savananh Vargas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ACSW
Carlsbad, CA 92008
My hope is to provide a welcoming and healing environment to support each individual’s unique and authentic journey. With my experience in school-based therapy serving children, adolescents, adults, and families, I am dedicated to promoting growth, resilience, and well-being.
My hope is to provide a welcoming and healing environment to support each individual’s unique and authentic journey. With my experience in school-based therapy serving children, adolescents, adults, and families, I am dedicated to promoting growth, resilience, and well-being.
(442) 217-3769 View (442) 217-3769
Ana Batan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, 106483
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have extensive experience in working with adults, couples, children, and families who have suffered a traumatic event, dealing with anxiety and or depression, relationship issues, stress, mood issues, or any other areas/issues that disrupt your daily life. If you are at a point where you, or someone you know, may benefit from having a non-biased, nonjudgmental therapist with fresh views and guidance, feel free to contact me. I believe treatment should be a collaboration that includes your values, the latest research, and my long-term experience in the field. I am committed to helping you make lasting changes in your lives.
I have extensive experience in working with adults, couples, children, and families who have suffered a traumatic event, dealing with anxiety and or depression, relationship issues, stress, mood issues, or any other areas/issues that disrupt your daily life. If you are at a point where you, or someone you know, may benefit from having a non-biased, nonjudgmental therapist with fresh views and guidance, feel free to contact me. I believe treatment should be a collaboration that includes your values, the latest research, and my long-term experience in the field. I am committed to helping you make lasting changes in your lives.
(657) 201-4447 View (657) 201-4447
Diane Carota
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Oceanside, CA 92056
Diane uses Cognitive Behavioral therapy to help her clients correct negative and destructive thought patterns and behavior. As well, as short-term psychodynamic therapy to help clients explore any relevant historical and current events that may prevent healthy functioning. Diane is also experienced in other treatment modalities that are used on an individual basis. Some of her clinical experiences include working with individuals who have anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationship difficulties, post trauma related symptoms, grief, divorce, blended families, and parenting issues.
Diane uses Cognitive Behavioral therapy to help her clients correct negative and destructive thought patterns and behavior. As well, as short-term psychodynamic therapy to help clients explore any relevant historical and current events that may prevent healthy functioning. Diane is also experienced in other treatment modalities that are used on an individual basis. Some of her clinical experiences include working with individuals who have anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationship difficulties, post trauma related symptoms, grief, divorce, blended families, and parenting issues.
(760) 374-3268 View (760) 374-3268
Kerry Rogers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My training is in Solution Focused therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and trauma-informed therapy.
From the outside, you have it all together. You are making strides in your career, you have a packed social calendar, and you are the “go-to” person for your friends. But internally, you feel anything but put together. You are stretched too thin and don’t have space in your life to take care of yourself because all of your energy seems to be spent supporting others.
My training is in Solution Focused therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and trauma-informed therapy.
From the outside, you have it all together. You are making strides in your career, you have a packed social calendar, and you are the “go-to” person for your friends. But internally, you feel anything but put together. You are stretched too thin and don’t have space in your life to take care of yourself because all of your energy seems to be spent supporting others.
(626) 699-7547 View (626) 699-7547
Alex Bailey
Counselor, LPCC, MA, CEAP
2 Endorsed
La Mesa, CA 91942
My specialties are in EMDR, IFS, Eastern Psychology, Mindfulness, and more commonly recognized modalities such as CBT, DBT, and ACT.
I believe in emphasizing one’s own unique spiritual journey as the primary source of knowing; that there is nothing needed to “fix,” but rather an opportunity to explore with newfound curiosity and connection. Collaborating with our natural environment and translating what is discussed during our time in into lived experiences is incredibly powerful and useful for sustained growth and learning. I am also licensed in CO as a certified psychedelic assisted therapy facilitator and offer psilocybin and ketamine facilitation as appropriate.
My specialties are in EMDR, IFS, Eastern Psychology, Mindfulness, and more commonly recognized modalities such as CBT, DBT, and ACT.
I believe in emphasizing one’s own unique spiritual journey as the primary source of knowing; that there is nothing needed to “fix,” but rather an opportunity to explore with newfound curiosity and connection. Collaborating with our natural environment and translating what is discussed during our time in into lived experiences is incredibly powerful and useful for sustained growth and learning. I am also licensed in CO as a certified psychedelic assisted therapy facilitator and offer psilocybin and ketamine facilitation as appropriate.
(619) 404-4533 View (619) 404-4533
Christian Porto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I understand that trauma and stress can affect every part of your life from your relationships and sense of safety to your ability to trust yourself. Whether you’re navigating the effects of past trauma, facing interpersonal conflict, or struggling to find direction in your life, you are not alone. Together, we will explore the root causes of current struggles, develop practical tools for coping, and work toward meaningful, lasting change. Helping you shift away from patterns that may have once protected you, but are now limiting your ability to fully connect with yourself and others.
I understand that trauma and stress can affect every part of your life from your relationships and sense of safety to your ability to trust yourself. Whether you’re navigating the effects of past trauma, facing interpersonal conflict, or struggling to find direction in your life, you are not alone. Together, we will explore the root causes of current struggles, develop practical tools for coping, and work toward meaningful, lasting change. Helping you shift away from patterns that may have once protected you, but are now limiting your ability to fully connect with yourself and others.
(760) 387-0014 View (760) 387-0014
Tracy Gardinera
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Hello, I’m Tracy Gardinera, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in San Diego. While I’m local to the area, I also work with clients across the state through telehealth. I’ve spent most of my career supporting both adults and adolescents, offering a compassionate and accepting space. My approach integrates solution-focused therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients navigate their challenges effectively. I’m so glad you’ve found me!
Hello, I’m Tracy Gardinera, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in San Diego. While I’m local to the area, I also work with clients across the state through telehealth. I’ve spent most of my career supporting both adults and adolescents, offering a compassionate and accepting space. My approach integrates solution-focused therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients navigate their challenges effectively. I’m so glad you’ve found me!
(747) 588-6690 View (747) 588-6690
Hope for Healers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92128
I have successfully coached healthcare workers through burn out by creating space for healing through acknowledgement and release of the stress and trauma stored in their body. Letting go of these negative experiences, strengthens their connection to others and brings clarity to their passion and purpose. I have also led trainings on topics such as emotion regulation, conflict resolution and effective communication. I created and led various support groups and trainings related to grief, chronic pain, imposter syndrome and burnout.
I have successfully coached healthcare workers through burn out by creating space for healing through acknowledgement and release of the stress and trauma stored in their body. Letting go of these negative experiences, strengthens their connection to others and brings clarity to their passion and purpose. I have also led trainings on topics such as emotion regulation, conflict resolution and effective communication. I created and led various support groups and trainings related to grief, chronic pain, imposter syndrome and burnout.
(442) 201-3787 View (442) 201-3787
Seth Senecal
Counselor, LCP
Online Only
My name is Seth Senecal, a licensed Clinical Psychologist. I am located in San Diego, CA, and am able to work remotely with individuals throughout the state. I have experience working with older children, adolescents, and adults of all ages, and with a wide variety of struggles, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, ASD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, chronic pain, EDs, body dysmorphia/dysphoria, concerns with gender/sexual identity, abuse, PTSD, and others.
My name is Seth Senecal, a licensed Clinical Psychologist. I am located in San Diego, CA, and am able to work remotely with individuals throughout the state. I have experience working with older children, adolescents, and adults of all ages, and with a wide variety of struggles, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, ASD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, chronic pain, EDs, body dysmorphia/dysphoria, concerns with gender/sexual identity, abuse, PTSD, and others.
(747) 277-8154 View (747) 277-8154
Claire Manley
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
5 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92130
Waitlist for new clients
In my work, I focus on providing compassionate and empathetic care to clients. My approach integrates Internal Family Systems, somatic therapy, and trauma informed treatment to help individuals address complex life/relationship challenges and foster meaningful personal growth. As an out and proud therapist, I especially enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ folks, women, and with relationship challenges.
In my work, I focus on providing compassionate and empathetic care to clients. My approach integrates Internal Family Systems, somatic therapy, and trauma informed treatment to help individuals address complex life/relationship challenges and foster meaningful personal growth. As an out and proud therapist, I especially enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ folks, women, and with relationship challenges.
(858) 290-7619 View (858) 290-7619
Cindy Way
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Clients often come to me feeling “stuck” between wanting closeness and needing protection. Therapy with me is not about pushing or fixing—it’s about understanding your patterns, restoring internal trust, and creating more ease in how you relate to yourself and others. I hold space for the full range of your story- both the pain and the strength. I see therapy as a co-created space where we untangle survival strategies that no longer serve you. I'm rooted in the depth of soul-work, exploration, and mind-body principles. Your story isn't finished, it's about to get powerful! Let’s get started!
Clients often come to me feeling “stuck” between wanting closeness and needing protection. Therapy with me is not about pushing or fixing—it’s about understanding your patterns, restoring internal trust, and creating more ease in how you relate to yourself and others. I hold space for the full range of your story- both the pain and the strength. I see therapy as a co-created space where we untangle survival strategies that no longer serve you. I'm rooted in the depth of soul-work, exploration, and mind-body principles. Your story isn't finished, it's about to get powerful! Let’s get started!
(619) 738-6711 View (619) 738-6711
Carla M Kruse
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Advanced ACT training.
Updated 5/28/26: Are you feeling stuck between who you were raised to be and who you want to become? Do old family wounds keep showing up in your work, romantic life, or friendships? You’ve worked hard to succeed — but self-doubt or past hurts still get in the way. I have a passion for working with young adults navigating early adulthood build confidence and direction as they launch careers, form healthy relationships, and heal unprocessed childhood wounds. My approach blends evidence based practical tools with insight-oriented therapy so you can show up as your best self at work, in love, and in life.
Advanced ACT training.
Updated 5/28/26: Are you feeling stuck between who you were raised to be and who you want to become? Do old family wounds keep showing up in your work, romantic life, or friendships? You’ve worked hard to succeed — but self-doubt or past hurts still get in the way. I have a passion for working with young adults navigating early adulthood build confidence and direction as they launch careers, form healthy relationships, and heal unprocessed childhood wounds. My approach blends evidence based practical tools with insight-oriented therapy so you can show up as your best self at work, in love, and in life.
(424) 222-8629 View (424) 222-8629
Lisa Davis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
My approach integrates various evidence-based modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), and Person-Centered Therapy.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist providing virtual therapy in California. My goal is to walk alongside you on your journey, helping you reconnect with your values, rediscover your strengths, and move toward the life you want to live.
My approach integrates various evidence-based modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), and Person-Centered Therapy.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist providing virtual therapy in California. My goal is to walk alongside you on your journey, helping you reconnect with your values, rediscover your strengths, and move toward the life you want to live.
(949) 334-5811 View (949) 334-5811
Anna Menniti
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Carlsbad, CA 92008
My clients are often facing a serious illness, their own diagnosis or a loved one's, along with the grief that comes before and after a loss. Others are moving through a major life transition: new parenthood, career change, divorce, or an empty nest. They come to me exhausted from holding everything together, unsure how to keep functioning while carrying so much. Together, we build a steady place to process what's happening, find words for feelings that resist neat language, and rebuild enough footing to keep showing up for their life and the people in it.
My clients are often facing a serious illness, their own diagnosis or a loved one's, along with the grief that comes before and after a loss. Others are moving through a major life transition: new parenthood, career change, divorce, or an empty nest. They come to me exhausted from holding everything together, unsure how to keep functioning while carrying so much. Together, we build a steady place to process what's happening, find words for feelings that resist neat language, and rebuild enough footing to keep showing up for their life and the people in it.
(760) 227-5264 View (760) 227-5264

See more therapy options for Cardiff

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.