Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapists in Encinitas, CA
As a licensed professional clinical counselor, I am passionate about connecting and providing client centered solutions to enhance and support happiness & overall quality of life. Often times, we struggle to see the forest for the trees, and I enjoy helping clients pave a path with understanding, insight, and positive regard.
I am currently licensed in 2 states and have experience working with children, adults, families and couples dealing with life challenges & transitions, anxiety & depression, OCD, past or current trauma, PTSD, & adoption.
As a licensed professional clinical counselor, I am passionate about connecting and providing client centered solutions to enhance and support happiness & overall quality of life. Often times, we struggle to see the forest for the trees, and I enjoy helping clients pave a path with understanding, insight, and positive regard.
I am currently licensed in 2 states and have experience working with children, adults, families and couples dealing with life challenges & transitions, anxiety & depression, OCD, past or current trauma, PTSD, & adoption.
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?
I’m an AuDHD therapist working with high-achieving neurodivergent adults who feel capable but stuck, burned out, or inconsistent. My style is direct and grounded in reflection—I won’t just nod; I’ll engage, share observations, and help you see patterns clearly. I take a relational, humanistic approach, so therapy feels like a real connection. Many of my clients are tired of masking or pushing through and want something that actually works. You can expect clarity, collaboration, and a space where you don’t have to filter yourself.
I’m an AuDHD therapist working with high-achieving neurodivergent adults who feel capable but stuck, burned out, or inconsistent. My style is direct and grounded in reflection—I won’t just nod; I’ll engage, share observations, and help you see patterns clearly. I take a relational, humanistic approach, so therapy feels like a real connection. Many of my clients are tired of masking or pushing through and want something that actually works. You can expect clarity, collaboration, and a space where you don’t have to filter yourself.
Riser has over 13 years of experience providing Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and various other evidence-based approaches for the treatment of mood, anxiety, and personality disorders with special interest in emotion regulation, self-harm, and suicidality.
Dr. Riser has worked as a DBT research therapist in an NIMH clinical trial at The University of Chicago. She has also worked in inpatient, outpatient, primary care, hospital, VA, and forensic settings. She has presented at national and international conferences and authored papers in the areas of emotion regulation, personality disorders and forensics.
Riser has over 13 years of experience providing Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and various other evidence-based approaches for the treatment of mood, anxiety, and personality disorders with special interest in emotion regulation, self-harm, and suicidality.
Dr. Riser has worked as a DBT research therapist in an NIMH clinical trial at The University of Chicago. She has also worked in inpatient, outpatient, primary care, hospital, VA, and forensic settings. She has presented at national and international conferences and authored papers in the areas of emotion regulation, personality disorders and forensics.
My therapeutic approach is non-judgmental, empathetic, understanding, compassionate, and accepting. I am committed to social justice and advocacy for marginalized persons. I want to help inspire you to grow into the person you want to become, without shame. I work with clients who want to improve their quality of life, decrease distress, enhance relationships, resolve family conflict, better cope with life, and break free from unhealthy patterns. I specialize in treating: depression, anxiety, addiction, grief, relationship problems, & unresolved conflict from childhood. I provide affirmative therapy for the LGBTQ2IA+ community.
My therapeutic approach is non-judgmental, empathetic, understanding, compassionate, and accepting. I am committed to social justice and advocacy for marginalized persons. I want to help inspire you to grow into the person you want to become, without shame. I work with clients who want to improve their quality of life, decrease distress, enhance relationships, resolve family conflict, better cope with life, and break free from unhealthy patterns. I specialize in treating: depression, anxiety, addiction, grief, relationship problems, & unresolved conflict from childhood. I provide affirmative therapy for the LGBTQ2IA+ community.
My work is grounded in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and I have advanced specializations in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD, and Exposure and Response Prevention.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who has a warm and compassionate approach to therapy, which encourages active collaboration. I have a passion for walking alongside others in the midst of struggle. When you come to therapy, it’s like you are trying to climb a mountain; I am not at the top of your mountain but, rather, on another mountain, offering a different perspective, pointing out potential dangers, and helping you find the most effective path along your journey.
My work is grounded in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and I have advanced specializations in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD, and Exposure and Response Prevention.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who has a warm and compassionate approach to therapy, which encourages active collaboration. I have a passion for walking alongside others in the midst of struggle. When you come to therapy, it’s like you are trying to climb a mountain; I am not at the top of your mountain but, rather, on another mountain, offering a different perspective, pointing out potential dangers, and helping you find the most effective path along your journey.
Now accepting adult clients for in-person and telehealth sessions!
Hi there, I am Dr. Danna. I believe therapy should be a right, not a privilege. Everyone deserves a safe, nonjudgmental space for self-understanding and growth. I have extensive training working with all ages from various demographics and clinical settings. My integrative, holistic approach, views the whole person through a biopsychosocial lens emphasizing collaboration and unconditional positive regard.
Now accepting adult clients for in-person and telehealth sessions!
Hi there, I am Dr. Danna. I believe therapy should be a right, not a privilege. Everyone deserves a safe, nonjudgmental space for self-understanding and growth. I have extensive training working with all ages from various demographics and clinical settings. My integrative, holistic approach, views the whole person through a biopsychosocial lens emphasizing collaboration and unconditional positive regard.
We practice using ACT, IFS, CBT, DBT, EMDR and Brainspotting.
You're feeling overwhelmed, disconnected or stuck in patterns that aren't working. Maybe your teen is anxious, your child is struggling with bullying, your relationship feels strained, or food and body image are taking up too much space. You want relief, clarity, stronger relationships, and tools that actually work. Your kids want to feel calmer more confident, and more connected at home, at school and in their relationships. We are a group practice in Encinitas serving children, teens, adults, couples families throughout North County San Diego. We blend evidence-based therapy with warm human connection.
We practice using ACT, IFS, CBT, DBT, EMDR and Brainspotting.
You're feeling overwhelmed, disconnected or stuck in patterns that aren't working. Maybe your teen is anxious, your child is struggling with bullying, your relationship feels strained, or food and body image are taking up too much space. You want relief, clarity, stronger relationships, and tools that actually work. Your kids want to feel calmer more confident, and more connected at home, at school and in their relationships. We are a group practice in Encinitas serving children, teens, adults, couples families throughout North County San Diego. We blend evidence-based therapy with warm human connection.
Taking the first step to seek support and find healing can be incredibly challenging. I want to validate the fact that you have made it this far! In this space, you belong, and I am here to listen, to guide and support you. Building a healthy and positive relationship with my clients is an important key to therapy. The space that we create is one that will allow for identity exploration, growth and aid in developing a healthy relationship with yourself and those around you. My approach to therapy is through a strength-based, client-centered and trauma-informed lens.
Taking the first step to seek support and find healing can be incredibly challenging. I want to validate the fact that you have made it this far! In this space, you belong, and I am here to listen, to guide and support you. Building a healthy and positive relationship with my clients is an important key to therapy. The space that we create is one that will allow for identity exploration, growth and aid in developing a healthy relationship with yourself and those around you. My approach to therapy is through a strength-based, client-centered and trauma-informed lens.
Each and every one of us possess the inherent ability to create positive change within ourselves. Whether you’re looking to alter patterns of behavior, strengthen relationships, or foster healthy development within your children, I would love the opportunity to work with you as you explore, understand, and grow. Therapy is a different journey for each individual and this is why I believe an integrated therapeutic approach tailored to YOU is essential in effective therapy. Based on your strengths, we will work together to create a personal and unique treatment plan, allowing you time to heal, grow, and reach your fullest potential.
Each and every one of us possess the inherent ability to create positive change within ourselves. Whether you’re looking to alter patterns of behavior, strengthen relationships, or foster healthy development within your children, I would love the opportunity to work with you as you explore, understand, and grow. Therapy is a different journey for each individual and this is why I believe an integrated therapeutic approach tailored to YOU is essential in effective therapy. Based on your strengths, we will work together to create a personal and unique treatment plan, allowing you time to heal, grow, and reach your fullest potential.
Her approach to therapy with her clients is teaching compassionate mindfulness and acceptance and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy.
Dr. Steese is a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. She obtained her license in 2013 when she completed her goal of becoming a Marriage and Family Therapist after a mid-life career change. She has worked in a variety of settings including hospice, a social skills training program for children with autism, and sober transitional living environments for homeless veterans. She has conducted equine assisted therapy with veterans by using rescued horses. She also assisted in research at UCSD where individuals with schizophrenia or dementia were enrolled in clinical research trials.
Her approach to therapy with her clients is teaching compassionate mindfulness and acceptance and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy.
Dr. Steese is a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. She obtained her license in 2013 when she completed her goal of becoming a Marriage and Family Therapist after a mid-life career change. She has worked in a variety of settings including hospice, a social skills training program for children with autism, and sober transitional living environments for homeless veterans. She has conducted equine assisted therapy with veterans by using rescued horses. She also assisted in research at UCSD where individuals with schizophrenia or dementia were enrolled in clinical research trials.
I work with people who struggle with significant emotional and behavioral issues that cause them to feel disconnected from others. The people I work with often begin therapy feeling confused and hopeless about how they feel and behave in their closest relationships. They may understand something is wrong, that they are not living the life they want and having the type of relationships they long for, but nothing they find online or in self-help books seems to get to the core of what they're experiencing. They feel its time to start exploring themselves more personally with a professional.
I work with people who struggle with significant emotional and behavioral issues that cause them to feel disconnected from others. The people I work with often begin therapy feeling confused and hopeless about how they feel and behave in their closest relationships. They may understand something is wrong, that they are not living the life they want and having the type of relationships they long for, but nothing they find online or in self-help books seems to get to the core of what they're experiencing. They feel its time to start exploring themselves more personally with a professional.
You may be navigating relationship challenges or in the midst of grief and loss, or really interested personal development, and I am here to support you. I'm currently about halfway through my certification with Terry Real's "Relational Life Therapy" and have excitement for sharing these valuable relationship lessons and tools! My goal is always to create an atmosphere of warmth where clients feel safe knowing that not only are they not being judged, but they are genuinely cared for. My style includes lots of laughter and focus on nurturing the positives and strengths in your self and relationships.
You may be navigating relationship challenges or in the midst of grief and loss, or really interested personal development, and I am here to support you. I'm currently about halfway through my certification with Terry Real's "Relational Life Therapy" and have excitement for sharing these valuable relationship lessons and tools! My goal is always to create an atmosphere of warmth where clients feel safe knowing that not only are they not being judged, but they are genuinely cared for. My style includes lots of laughter and focus on nurturing the positives and strengths in your self and relationships.
I draw from multiple treatment modalities including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other third-wave models such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who provides compassionate, supportive, evidence-based telehealth services to individuals across California. I specialize in eating disorders across the full spectrum as well as co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, depression, and OCD. I work with children (10+), teens, adults, and families. Many of my clients have tried therapy before and felt the eating concerns were never fully addressed. That is the gap I trained to fill. Ultimately, the aim is to help you clarify and connect with your values in a way that supports meaningful change and empowers you to create a life worth living.
I draw from multiple treatment modalities including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other third-wave models such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who provides compassionate, supportive, evidence-based telehealth services to individuals across California. I specialize in eating disorders across the full spectrum as well as co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, depression, and OCD. I work with children (10+), teens, adults, and families. Many of my clients have tried therapy before and felt the eating concerns were never fully addressed. That is the gap I trained to fill. Ultimately, the aim is to help you clarify and connect with your values in a way that supports meaningful change and empowers you to create a life worth living.
Emily Elizabeth
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW, MSW
2 Endorsed
Encinitas, CA 92024
Waitlist for new clients
As a therapist and social worker, I believe our experiences shape us individually and collectively, and that healing within ourselves can strengthen our relationships and communities. With a social-justice approach centering inclusivity, anti-racism, and anti-capitalism, our work is guided toward growth that honors both your inner life and your connection to the greater whole.
My hope for our time together is to collaboratively discover your most authentic self, allowing the core of who you are to guide your healing journey. If you are seeking personal, communal, and spiritual growth, I would be honored to walk alongside you.
As a therapist and social worker, I believe our experiences shape us individually and collectively, and that healing within ourselves can strengthen our relationships and communities. With a social-justice approach centering inclusivity, anti-racism, and anti-capitalism, our work is guided toward growth that honors both your inner life and your connection to the greater whole.
My hope for our time together is to collaboratively discover your most authentic self, allowing the core of who you are to guide your healing journey. If you are seeking personal, communal, and spiritual growth, I would be honored to walk alongside you.
Welcome! I am so glad you are here.
I work with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, eating disorders, self esteem concerns, perfectionism, high achievement pressure, and life transitions. My approach blends Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, person centered, and attachment based work. Therapy with me is warm, collaborative, and grounded in practical tools and deeper insight. Faith integrated therapy is available upon request but never required. Wherever you are in life, I am here to walk alongside you.
Welcome! I am so glad you are here.
I work with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, eating disorders, self esteem concerns, perfectionism, high achievement pressure, and life transitions. My approach blends Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, person centered, and attachment based work. Therapy with me is warm, collaborative, and grounded in practical tools and deeper insight. Faith integrated therapy is available upon request but never required. Wherever you are in life, I am here to walk alongside you.
I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, cancer/chronic illness and mood disorders using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as some of the tools to help you on the path to feeling better.
I have found that my style and approach is a good fit for young adults through the life span. I’ve encountered people from diverse backgrounds and age groups with whom I've been grateful to work with in a variety of settings. I integrate my experiences with compassion to provide integrative and culturally informed care in a warm and nonjudgmental space.
I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, cancer/chronic illness and mood disorders using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as some of the tools to help you on the path to feeling better.
I have found that my style and approach is a good fit for young adults through the life span. I’ve encountered people from diverse backgrounds and age groups with whom I've been grateful to work with in a variety of settings. I integrate my experiences with compassion to provide integrative and culturally informed care in a warm and nonjudgmental space.
You're carrying more than most people know — and you're still showing up every day trying to figure it out. Maybe it's anxiety that won't quiet down, a relationship stuck on repeat, or a season of life that just feels heavier than it should. Maybe there's a spiritual dimension to your struggle that other therapists have glossed over. You don't need someone to hand you a worksheet. You need someone who actually gets your world — including the parts that matter most to you about who you are and what you believe.
You're carrying more than most people know — and you're still showing up every day trying to figure it out. Maybe it's anxiety that won't quiet down, a relationship stuck on repeat, or a season of life that just feels heavier than it should. Maybe there's a spiritual dimension to your struggle that other therapists have glossed over. You don't need someone to hand you a worksheet. You need someone who actually gets your world — including the parts that matter most to you about who you are and what you believe.
Hello and welcome! I’m Sarah, and I’m so glad you’re here. As you move through the heaviest chapters of your story, you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you’re feeling disconnected, misaligned, navigating life transitions, or processing grief, I’m here to support you through the uncertainty. My style is deeply rooted in an integrative and collaborative approach, creating space where you can slow down and reconnect with yourself.
Hello and welcome! I’m Sarah, and I’m so glad you’re here. As you move through the heaviest chapters of your story, you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you’re feeling disconnected, misaligned, navigating life transitions, or processing grief, I’m here to support you through the uncertainty. My style is deeply rooted in an integrative and collaborative approach, creating space where you can slow down and reconnect with yourself.
Destiny Peterson Bach
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
1 Endorsed
Encinitas, CA 92024
My collaborative, supportive (and sometimes humorous) approach integrates CBT, DBT, and ACT, with a strong mind–body focus to build insight, practical tools, and greater confidence and grounding.
Hi there, I’m Destiny, a therapist based in Southern California. I work with individuals navigating life transitions and struggling with patterns that affect self-esteem, identity, and emotional well-being. I also support couples, whether preparing for marriage or facing ongoing conflict, who want to break unhelpful cycles, rebuild trust, and strengthen communication and friendship.
My collaborative, supportive (and sometimes humorous) approach integrates CBT, DBT, and ACT, with a strong mind–body focus to build insight, practical tools, and greater confidence and grounding.
Hi there, I’m Destiny, a therapist based in Southern California. I work with individuals navigating life transitions and struggling with patterns that affect self-esteem, identity, and emotional well-being. I also support couples, whether preparing for marriage or facing ongoing conflict, who want to break unhelpful cycles, rebuild trust, and strengthen communication and friendship.
See more therapy options for Encinitas
Nearby Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapists Searches for Encinitas
- Bonsall
- Cardiff
- Cardiff By The Sea
- Del Mar
- Escondido
- La Jolla
- Oceanside
- Poway
- Rancho Santa Fe
- San Marcos
- Solana Beach
- Vista
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.