Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapists in San Diego, CA
As a therapist, I believe change occurs through relationships; the relationship we have with our Self, others and the environment around us can greatly shape how we feel day to day. I foster a therapeutic relationship that allows a safe, non-judgemental space for reflection, insight and growth. Life can bring all sorts of challenges and difficulties, and I am privileged to help people get unstuck. My work focuses on helping adults and teens navigate major life changes, work through challenging childhood experiences, and change our relationship to unwanted feelings of anxiety and depression.
As a therapist, I believe change occurs through relationships; the relationship we have with our Self, others and the environment around us can greatly shape how we feel day to day. I foster a therapeutic relationship that allows a safe, non-judgemental space for reflection, insight and growth. Life can bring all sorts of challenges and difficulties, and I am privileged to help people get unstuck. My work focuses on helping adults and teens navigate major life changes, work through challenging childhood experiences, and change our relationship to unwanted feelings of anxiety and depression.
Do you feel overwhelmed, stuck, disconnected, or ready for change? Many of my clients come to therapy for support with estrangement, trauma, anxiety, grief and loss, addiction, relationship challenges, men’s issues, and major life transitions. I offer a compassionate, collaborative space where clients can better understand their patterns, build practical coping and communication skills, and heal from painful experiences.
It is my goal to help clients move toward healthier relationships, to gain greater resilience and a stronger sense of self.
Do you feel overwhelmed, stuck, disconnected, or ready for change? Many of my clients come to therapy for support with estrangement, trauma, anxiety, grief and loss, addiction, relationship challenges, men’s issues, and major life transitions. I offer a compassionate, collaborative space where clients can better understand their patterns, build practical coping and communication skills, and heal from painful experiences.
It is my goal to help clients move toward healthier relationships, to gain greater resilience and a stronger sense of self.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist in private practice. I primarily work with adolescents and adults who experience symptoms of depression, anxiety, psychosis-like symptoms as well trauma. I also work with individuals coping with life transitions, illness and hormonal changes. I trained at University of California San Diego, Yale University as well as at the San Diego Psychoanalytic Institute. In addition to private practice, I am a scientist and Clinical Psychologist at UCSD. There, I conduct assessments in adolescents with early symptoms of psychosis at Cognitive and Risk Assessment Evaluation Program (CARE) .
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist in private practice. I primarily work with adolescents and adults who experience symptoms of depression, anxiety, psychosis-like symptoms as well trauma. I also work with individuals coping with life transitions, illness and hormonal changes. I trained at University of California San Diego, Yale University as well as at the San Diego Psychoanalytic Institute. In addition to private practice, I am a scientist and Clinical Psychologist at UCSD. There, I conduct assessments in adolescents with early symptoms of psychosis at Cognitive and Risk Assessment Evaluation Program (CARE) .
I'm rooted in attachment theory and like to incorporate creativity and mindfulness techniques with evidence-based talk therapies, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Dialectical Based Therapy.
My name is Naomi Hawkes and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in West Los Angeles, California, and working with clients statewide and in Maine via telehealth. My approach is flexible and depends on your needs, values, and goals. My clients are brave and seek a warm, compassionate yet direct, space to process and challenge their experiences and beliefs without taking things too seriously. Together, we'll build on your strengths, dismantle unhelpful patterns, and practice skills to ease daily tensions and navigate relationships.
I'm rooted in attachment theory and like to incorporate creativity and mindfulness techniques with evidence-based talk therapies, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Dialectical Based Therapy.
My name is Naomi Hawkes and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in West Los Angeles, California, and working with clients statewide and in Maine via telehealth. My approach is flexible and depends on your needs, values, and goals. My clients are brave and seek a warm, compassionate yet direct, space to process and challenge their experiences and beliefs without taking things too seriously. Together, we'll build on your strengths, dismantle unhelpful patterns, and practice skills to ease daily tensions and navigate relationships.
I use approaches that draw on client strengths and also bring ideas, thoughts, fears, behaviors, and unfulfilled dreams to the forefront to create desired change. From a young age, I have always seen that all humans have value and individual strengths. I have enjoyed working in the field for over 20 years, where I believe creating a supportive, validating environment and honing in on specific areas of development have allowed for very successful change in my clients' lives. Reaching out for support is not easy, but I will walk the path with you, as we explore and implement steps for more peace, joy, and understanding in your life.
I use approaches that draw on client strengths and also bring ideas, thoughts, fears, behaviors, and unfulfilled dreams to the forefront to create desired change. From a young age, I have always seen that all humans have value and individual strengths. I have enjoyed working in the field for over 20 years, where I believe creating a supportive, validating environment and honing in on specific areas of development have allowed for very successful change in my clients' lives. Reaching out for support is not easy, but I will walk the path with you, as we explore and implement steps for more peace, joy, and understanding in your life.
My name is Elaine Mills, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I earned my Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology from National University in 2012. I have been working in the field for ten years, licensed for four. My work history is in a variety of settings with individuals, couples, and families, including an eating disorders program, an intensive respite program for at-risk adolescents, and an on-base for military members and their families. My focus is working with a trauma-informed lens to help individuals understand how trauma impacts our bodies, minds, and our relationships with others.
My name is Elaine Mills, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I earned my Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology from National University in 2012. I have been working in the field for ten years, licensed for four. My work history is in a variety of settings with individuals, couples, and families, including an eating disorders program, an intensive respite program for at-risk adolescents, and an on-base for military members and their families. My focus is working with a trauma-informed lens to help individuals understand how trauma impacts our bodies, minds, and our relationships with others.
Shelby Banks, Autism Affirming Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92102
I integrate neurodiversity affirming therapy, attachment focused work, Internal Family Systems (IFS), ACT, DBT, and EFT.
Hi, I’m Shelby (she/her). I’m an Autistic, neurodivergent affirming therapist, and I’m passionate about helping people feel more understood, connected, and safe enough to fully be themselves. I work with teens, adults and couples navigating things like anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment wounds, relationship struggles, burnout, identity exploration, chronic masking, and feeling overwhelmed by life. I especially enjoy working late-diagnosed neurodivergent clients, LGBTQ+ clients and neurodivergent couples trying to better understand themselves and each other.
I integrate neurodiversity affirming therapy, attachment focused work, Internal Family Systems (IFS), ACT, DBT, and EFT.
Hi, I’m Shelby (she/her). I’m an Autistic, neurodivergent affirming therapist, and I’m passionate about helping people feel more understood, connected, and safe enough to fully be themselves. I work with teens, adults and couples navigating things like anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment wounds, relationship struggles, burnout, identity exploration, chronic masking, and feeling overwhelmed by life. I especially enjoy working late-diagnosed neurodivergent clients, LGBTQ+ clients and neurodivergent couples trying to better understand themselves and each other.
I'm passionate about helping people truly thrive in life, not just survive. Trauma, depression and anxiety are far too common, and can completely rob life of its joy. Hope and healing are available! Through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness therapy, and trauma-focused therapy, such as EMDR and Internal Family Systems Therapy, we can get creative together to bring more joy into your life.
I'm passionate about helping people truly thrive in life, not just survive. Trauma, depression and anxiety are far too common, and can completely rob life of its joy. Hope and healing are available! Through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness therapy, and trauma-focused therapy, such as EMDR and Internal Family Systems Therapy, we can get creative together to bring more joy into your life.
Hello, I'm Tiffany, a registered Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, San Diego native, and daughter of immigrants who brings her whole self into the counseling room, setting the scene for you to bring your whole self as well. I bring a warm, person-centered approach to therapy, working through a trauma-informed lens to create a space where clients feel seen, safe, and supported. My hope is that working with me will feel like equal parts cheerleader and coach, helping you reach your goals through empowerment and encouragement. I tailor my work to meet your needs as the client.
Hello, I'm Tiffany, a registered Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, San Diego native, and daughter of immigrants who brings her whole self into the counseling room, setting the scene for you to bring your whole self as well. I bring a warm, person-centered approach to therapy, working through a trauma-informed lens to create a space where clients feel seen, safe, and supported. My hope is that working with me will feel like equal parts cheerleader and coach, helping you reach your goals through empowerment and encouragement. I tailor my work to meet your needs as the client.
My clinical experience is very varied with 30+ years with mostly San Diego County Behavioral Health Services where I was Program Manager for an emergency psychiatric service for children and adolescents. I have also worked in private practice for over 20 years part-time. I have trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Gestalt therapy, and have experience using many techniques such as CBT, exposure therapy, reality therapy, meditation/mindfulness to name a few.
I am happy to work with all ages, individuals, couples and families
My clinical experience is very varied with 30+ years with mostly San Diego County Behavioral Health Services where I was Program Manager for an emergency psychiatric service for children and adolescents. I have also worked in private practice for over 20 years part-time. I have trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, Gestalt therapy, and have experience using many techniques such as CBT, exposure therapy, reality therapy, meditation/mindfulness to name a few.
I am happy to work with all ages, individuals, couples and families
I believe that everyone deserves to live a fulfilling life - a life that is connected to your values, passions, and loved ones. I value authentic human connection and want to understand your joy, pain, your past, what you believe in, and what you hope for. I will help you gain insight into yourself, so that you can confidently navigate life’s challenges and find healing and purpose.
I believe that everyone deserves to live a fulfilling life - a life that is connected to your values, passions, and loved ones. I value authentic human connection and want to understand your joy, pain, your past, what you believe in, and what you hope for. I will help you gain insight into yourself, so that you can confidently navigate life’s challenges and find healing and purpose.
Welcome and congratulations on beginning your therapy journey! I'm here to support you as you take steps toward your goals and develop into your best possible self. I hope to create a safe space for you to find relief from your daily stressors, healing, and develop meaningful insight to reach your fullest potential.
Welcome and congratulations on beginning your therapy journey! I'm here to support you as you take steps toward your goals and develop into your best possible self. I hope to create a safe space for you to find relief from your daily stressors, healing, and develop meaningful insight to reach your fullest potential.
My approach focuses on building trust and rapport with my clients. I believe that the client-therapist relationship is paramount to a successful outcome. Over the years, I have worked extensively with individuals from a variety of cultures, backgrounds and lifestyles. I enjoy working collaboratively with my clients to take control of their own healing and transformation process.
I earned undergraduate degrees in Sociology and Art History from Washington State University and my Master's degree in Marital and Family Therapy from the University of San Diego.
At this time I am only treating clients via telehealth.
My approach focuses on building trust and rapport with my clients. I believe that the client-therapist relationship is paramount to a successful outcome. Over the years, I have worked extensively with individuals from a variety of cultures, backgrounds and lifestyles. I enjoy working collaboratively with my clients to take control of their own healing and transformation process.
I earned undergraduate degrees in Sociology and Art History from Washington State University and my Master's degree in Marital and Family Therapy from the University of San Diego.
At this time I am only treating clients via telehealth.
If you are seeking psychotherapy to improve your self-esteem, process trauma, manage symptoms of anxiety or depression, process divorce or other loss, get a handle on your anger, improve your job performance, learn to be more assertive, or improve your relationships with others, I can help. In a warm and supportive environment we will work together to foster insight and build the skills needed to deal successfully with life's unpredictable stressors.
If you are seeking psychotherapy to improve your self-esteem, process trauma, manage symptoms of anxiety or depression, process divorce or other loss, get a handle on your anger, improve your job performance, learn to be more assertive, or improve your relationships with others, I can help. In a warm and supportive environment we will work together to foster insight and build the skills needed to deal successfully with life's unpredictable stressors.
We'll then work on skills building, sourcing from Cognitive Behavioral, Acceptance Commitment , and Dialectical Behavioral skill sets.
Life is always changing, and we can adapt to that change. I use a mix of existential and solution-focused approaches toward helping clients identify and realize both meaningful and targeted treatment goals. I have many years of experience treating anxiety, depression, and addiction, among other life challenges.
We'll then work on skills building, sourcing from Cognitive Behavioral, Acceptance Commitment , and Dialectical Behavioral skill sets.
Life is always changing, and we can adapt to that change. I use a mix of existential and solution-focused approaches toward helping clients identify and realize both meaningful and targeted treatment goals. I have many years of experience treating anxiety, depression, and addiction, among other life challenges.
Hi there, my name is Daniela. I am a dedicated Psychological Associate who holds a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy along with a Psy.D. from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I’ve worked in a wide range of diverse populations with my current focus being that of the bareWell team in San Diego. As a bilingual clinician, I welcome patients who prefer treatment in either English or Spanish. I believe my language skills have enabled me to connect deeply with patients and families from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds, ensuring effective communication and a supportive therapeutic experience.
Hi there, my name is Daniela. I am a dedicated Psychological Associate who holds a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy along with a Psy.D. from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I’ve worked in a wide range of diverse populations with my current focus being that of the bareWell team in San Diego. As a bilingual clinician, I welcome patients who prefer treatment in either English or Spanish. I believe my language skills have enabled me to connect deeply with patients and families from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds, ensuring effective communication and a supportive therapeutic experience.
We balance acceptance and compassion with the science of how to change emotions and behaviors.
Our clients need help reducing their intense and persistent emotional suffering, especially when emotional behaviors have created additional problems, like addiction, or losing jobs or relationships. They have struggled to find peaceful, meaningful relationships, facing frequent stressful conflicts or painful loneliness. Often many previous therapies have not been helpful enough, and so they need a stronger skills-based approach in addition to a supportive relationship.
We balance acceptance and compassion with the science of how to change emotions and behaviors.
Our clients need help reducing their intense and persistent emotional suffering, especially when emotional behaviors have created additional problems, like addiction, or losing jobs or relationships. They have struggled to find peaceful, meaningful relationships, facing frequent stressful conflicts or painful loneliness. Often many previous therapies have not been helpful enough, and so they need a stronger skills-based approach in addition to a supportive relationship.
Seeking support with sexual challenges, relationships, living with cancer, grief, or a combination of these? With over 20 years of experience providing therapy and AASECT certification as a sex therapist, you can talk with me about the things others are uncomfortable talking about. You may have experienced the death of a loved one or a different type of life transition. You may be struggling with adjusting to a new relationship or feeling disappointed with an aspect of your current one. I can provide you with support, insights, treatment, education, and guidance during times of transition and beyond.
Seeking support with sexual challenges, relationships, living with cancer, grief, or a combination of these? With over 20 years of experience providing therapy and AASECT certification as a sex therapist, you can talk with me about the things others are uncomfortable talking about. You may have experienced the death of a loved one or a different type of life transition. You may be struggling with adjusting to a new relationship or feeling disappointed with an aspect of your current one. I can provide you with support, insights, treatment, education, and guidance during times of transition and beyond.
Rich Benfante treats patients starting at 13-year-old. Rich Benfante is a Licensed MFT with over a decade of experience in the mental health field. He has experience working with adolescents, adults, and families providing individual, crisis, and family therapy to clients who come from different socio-economical backgrounds with a vast array of mental health needs. Rich has experience working in schools, residential programs, and in the community. He has also worked with foster youth, persons on probation, victims of violence and abuse, military and law enforcement, clients struggling with substance issues, and persons of faith.
Rich Benfante treats patients starting at 13-year-old. Rich Benfante is a Licensed MFT with over a decade of experience in the mental health field. He has experience working with adolescents, adults, and families providing individual, crisis, and family therapy to clients who come from different socio-economical backgrounds with a vast array of mental health needs. Rich has experience working in schools, residential programs, and in the community. He has also worked with foster youth, persons on probation, victims of violence and abuse, military and law enforcement, clients struggling with substance issues, and persons of faith.
I am an RN, an Educator by profession, and a certified Intuitive Coach. I have been in private practice for the past 20 years and have counseled Individuals in private and academic settings. In the past, I specialized in counseling children with ADHD and Anger Management, and I have books on Anger for children and adults. I look forward to helping you find solutions to some of your concerns. My therapeutic approach centers around Behavior Modification, Client Problem Solution, compassionate, client-centered Counseling, and intuitive coaching.
Warmly, Dr. Greene.
I am an RN, an Educator by profession, and a certified Intuitive Coach. I have been in private practice for the past 20 years and have counseled Individuals in private and academic settings. In the past, I specialized in counseling children with ADHD and Anger Management, and I have books on Anger for children and adults. I look forward to helping you find solutions to some of your concerns. My therapeutic approach centers around Behavior Modification, Client Problem Solution, compassionate, client-centered Counseling, and intuitive coaching.
Warmly, Dr. Greene.
See more therapy options for San Diego
Nearby Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapists Searches for San Diego
- Bonita
- Chula Vista
- Coronado
- El Cajon
- Imperial Beach
- La Jolla
- La Mesa
- Lakeside
- Lemon Grove
- National City
- Santee
- Spring Valley
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.