Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapists in California

Photo of Erin Carl, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Erin Carl
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alameda, CA 94501  (Online Only)
I work from a foundation of client-centered, trauma-informed, narrative approaches/philosophies, and utilize Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) in practice and interventions. I feel confident in short-term models that include psychoeducation, skill building, and processing in tandem. I care deeply about the emotional health of my clients and wish for their independence and freedom from emotional distress interfering with their goals and values.
I work from a foundation of client-centered, trauma-informed, narrative approaches/philosophies, and utilize Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) in practice and interventions. I feel confident in short-term models that include psychoeducation, skill building, and processing in tandem. I care deeply about the emotional health of my clients and wish for their independence and freedom from emotional distress interfering with their goals and values.
(510) 630-2291 View (510) 630-2291
Photo of Danelle Berdahl - DB Counseling, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
DB Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Pleasanton, CA 94566
Whether you experience anxiety or have suffered a loss or past trauma, I provide caring and professional therapy using an integrated approach informed by Brainspotting, Internal Family Systems, Attachment, Somatic Experiencing, ACT and other Trauma informed modalities.
If you are feeling stressed, overwhelmed, and like circumstances are out of your control, I welcome you! Clients who choose to work with me are often looking to increase their ability to express themselves freely, feel more connected, and embrace themselves for who they are. Let's work together, we will explore and recover your unique values and strengths. Your therapy will be unique to only you! We will discover your own internal and external influences that keep you struggling and develop positive strategies to achieve your personal goals.
Whether you experience anxiety or have suffered a loss or past trauma, I provide caring and professional therapy using an integrated approach informed by Brainspotting, Internal Family Systems, Attachment, Somatic Experiencing, ACT and other Trauma informed modalities.
If you are feeling stressed, overwhelmed, and like circumstances are out of your control, I welcome you! Clients who choose to work with me are often looking to increase their ability to express themselves freely, feel more connected, and embrace themselves for who they are. Let's work together, we will explore and recover your unique values and strengths. Your therapy will be unique to only you! We will discover your own internal and external influences that keep you struggling and develop positive strategies to achieve your personal goals.
(925) 399-8685 View (925) 399-8685
Photo of Ariel C Klassen, LPCC
Ariel C Klassen
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carlsbad, CA 92011  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR and other forms of therapy including CBT, DBT, and ACT.
I specialize in trauma, addiction, anxiety and depression and have had the privilege of assisting varying ages from working at a residential treatment facility with adolescents to currently spending time at an intensive outpatient program for adults with substance abuse and mental health issues. Whether leading group therapy or in an individual session I value the importance of mental health and am committed to fostering growth in the lives I am a part of.
I am trained in EMDR and other forms of therapy including CBT, DBT, and ACT.
I specialize in trauma, addiction, anxiety and depression and have had the privilege of assisting varying ages from working at a residential treatment facility with adolescents to currently spending time at an intensive outpatient program for adults with substance abuse and mental health issues. Whether leading group therapy or in an individual session I value the importance of mental health and am committed to fostering growth in the lives I am a part of.
(760) 383-8472 View (760) 383-8472
Photo of Stephanie Hon, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stephanie Hon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fontana, CA 92336
Hi! My name is Stephanie Hon and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of California with over 6 years of clinical experience. I enjoy working with young adults and adults dealing with anxiety, stress, and interpersonal relationship issues. I utilize acceptance commitment therapy ( ACT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma resiliency model (TRM), and Gottman Method with my clients.
Hi! My name is Stephanie Hon and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of California with over 6 years of clinical experience. I enjoy working with young adults and adults dealing with anxiety, stress, and interpersonal relationship issues. I utilize acceptance commitment therapy ( ACT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma resiliency model (TRM), and Gottman Method with my clients.
(909) 588-2558 View (909) 588-2558
Photo of Paul Malkin, LCSW, MFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paul Malkin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MFT
Verified Verified
Fremont, CA 94539  (Online Only)
I also use Acceptance and commitment therapy ( ACT).
I work primarily with people who are dealing with anxiety or depression and my primary model of treatment is Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT). I believe that our difficulties are more often as result of how we are thinking about our problems rather than the problems themselves. CBT provides skills and tools for coping with your thoughts as well as the difficult emotions that come along with your thinking. CBT can also be helpful for procrastination or for being withdrawn. My professional work can be characterized as being active, empathetic, compassionate, energizing and motivational.
I also use Acceptance and commitment therapy ( ACT).
I work primarily with people who are dealing with anxiety or depression and my primary model of treatment is Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT). I believe that our difficulties are more often as result of how we are thinking about our problems rather than the problems themselves. CBT provides skills and tools for coping with your thoughts as well as the difficult emotions that come along with your thinking. CBT can also be helpful for procrastination or for being withdrawn. My professional work can be characterized as being active, empathetic, compassionate, energizing and motivational.
(510) 730-3984 View (510) 730-3984
Photo of Tamiko Love, DSW, LCSW, SAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tamiko Love
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, SAP
Verified Verified
Gardena, CA 90248
Waitlist for new clients
Identifying a therapist with whom you are comfortable is a critical step toward facilitating the changes that you desire. Tamiko Love is a Psychotherapist, Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 23 Yrs. of experience. I welcome people facing a variety of challenges, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, relationship issues, family difficulties, and anger. Some specific methodologies/therapeutic techniques I employ include, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy.
Identifying a therapist with whom you are comfortable is a critical step toward facilitating the changes that you desire. Tamiko Love is a Psychotherapist, Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 23 Yrs. of experience. I welcome people facing a variety of challenges, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, relationship issues, family difficulties, and anger. Some specific methodologies/therapeutic techniques I employ include, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy.
(310) 692-7220 View (310) 692-7220
Photo of Hazzel Angulo, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Hazzel Angulo
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90505
Trauma, anxiety, and addiction can make you feel stuck. The most important step towards healing is to address the unresolved emotion inside you. Healing requires feelings. Acceptance slowly dissolves pain. When we function from the fear and scarring of our trauma, the cycles continue until we learn how to transmute that energy into love. I apply a Holistic approach that integrates physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual forms of well-being, addressing the “whole” self. Through a holistic framework tailored to your unique needs, the goal is to support you develop a deeper understanding of the self on all these levels.
Trauma, anxiety, and addiction can make you feel stuck. The most important step towards healing is to address the unresolved emotion inside you. Healing requires feelings. Acceptance slowly dissolves pain. When we function from the fear and scarring of our trauma, the cycles continue until we learn how to transmute that energy into love. I apply a Holistic approach that integrates physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual forms of well-being, addressing the “whole” self. Through a holistic framework tailored to your unique needs, the goal is to support you develop a deeper understanding of the self on all these levels.
(424) 340-5605 View (424) 340-5605
Photo of Sarah Carr, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah Carr
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
Sarah specializes in helping teens and adults navigate OCD, anxiety disorders (social, generalized, phobias, panic), depression, work stress, and trauma. She is trained in evidence-based treatments that include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), and Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC). Sarah has attended several multi-day residential mindfulness retreats and is a Certified Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Teacher. Sarah has also has completed intensive training in Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP). More info at www.mindfulsf.com.
Sarah specializes in helping teens and adults navigate OCD, anxiety disorders (social, generalized, phobias, panic), depression, work stress, and trauma. She is trained in evidence-based treatments that include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT), and Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC). Sarah has attended several multi-day residential mindfulness retreats and is a Certified Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Teacher. Sarah has also has completed intensive training in Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP). More info at www.mindfulsf.com.
(415) 969-3289 View (415) 969-3289
Photo of Jason Woodrum, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jason Woodrum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ladera Ranch, CA 92694  (Online Only)
My practice is one that is largely informed by Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapyl.
My ideal client is someone who is ready to be the lead dance partner in doing something that is inherently challenging but possible: achieving and sustaining behavioral change. Most of my clients have a greater understanding of what they're feeling, and simply need direction in regard to the how of changing those feelings and the behaviors and thoughts that orbit them. While the goals are different for each and every person, I believe that the unifying theory that connects my clients is a readiness to do hard things, and a curiosity to what that version of themselves might look like untethered from their current challenges.
My practice is one that is largely informed by Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapyl.
My ideal client is someone who is ready to be the lead dance partner in doing something that is inherently challenging but possible: achieving and sustaining behavioral change. Most of my clients have a greater understanding of what they're feeling, and simply need direction in regard to the how of changing those feelings and the behaviors and thoughts that orbit them. While the goals are different for each and every person, I believe that the unifying theory that connects my clients is a readiness to do hard things, and a curiosity to what that version of themselves might look like untethered from their current challenges.
(949) 828-1654 View (949) 828-1654
Photo of Ellen Pinnock, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ellen Pinnock
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94111  (Online Only)
Feeling overwhelmed with anxiety, trying to gain acceptance through pleasing others, and feeling unworthy? I understand. As your therapist, I can help you find happiness in your authenticity and build healthier boundaries. With my relatable metaphors, humor, and practical advice, we can craft strategies that reflect your values. Let's work together to reduce the debilitating impacts of anxiety and depression, and help you live the life you desire.
Feeling overwhelmed with anxiety, trying to gain acceptance through pleasing others, and feeling unworthy? I understand. As your therapist, I can help you find happiness in your authenticity and build healthier boundaries. With my relatable metaphors, humor, and practical advice, we can craft strategies that reflect your values. Let's work together to reduce the debilitating impacts of anxiety and depression, and help you live the life you desire.
(415) 612-6152 View (415) 612-6152
Photo of Faith Hyden, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Faith Hyden
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Bernardino, CA 92408  (Online Only)
Welcome! I help individuals, couples and teens find hope, happiness, and peace in their home environment. Communication and trust are important factors in a any relationships. Are you a woman who no longer receives affection from your partner? Are you a man that no longer feels respected and admired? Are you a same sex couple who admires someone that provides unconditional support & acceptance. Are you struggling with not being heard or validated? My mission is to build an authentic relationship and learn ways to communicate and heal.
Welcome! I help individuals, couples and teens find hope, happiness, and peace in their home environment. Communication and trust are important factors in a any relationships. Are you a woman who no longer receives affection from your partner? Are you a man that no longer feels respected and admired? Are you a same sex couple who admires someone that provides unconditional support & acceptance. Are you struggling with not being heard or validated? My mission is to build an authentic relationship and learn ways to communicate and heal.
(951) 433-7206 View (951) 433-7206
Photo of Rocio Velasco, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rocio Velasco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
I have experience in utilizing the following therapeutic approaches: CBT, ACT, DBT, EMDR, and solution-focused therapy.
I have experience in working with trauma, medical issues and chronic pain, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, gender identity and transition, foster youth and parenting, and caregiver stress. I was first attracted to this work when I realized how empowering therapy was for individuals who had dealt with trauma and loss while I was doing volunteer work. My drive to do this work is to help others achieve freedom from some of the things that are burdensome and keep them from living their best life.
I have experience in utilizing the following therapeutic approaches: CBT, ACT, DBT, EMDR, and solution-focused therapy.
I have experience in working with trauma, medical issues and chronic pain, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, gender identity and transition, foster youth and parenting, and caregiver stress. I was first attracted to this work when I realized how empowering therapy was for individuals who had dealt with trauma and loss while I was doing volunteer work. My drive to do this work is to help others achieve freedom from some of the things that are burdensome and keep them from living their best life.
(949) 894-4442 View (949) 894-4442
Photo of Irwin Ford Rosenfarb, PhD, Psychologist
Irwin Ford Rosenfarb
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92131
Steven Hayes, the developer of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT).
Hello and welcome. I offer psychotherapy for adults, couples, families, and teens dealing with relationship difficulties, depression and anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality issues, schizophrenia, and other mental health problems. I also help family members understand their loved one's difficulties and help couples and families communicate more effectively. I believe that change occurs within the context of a positive therapeutic relationship and my focus is on creating a caring, compassionate, and sensitive space where individuals, couples, and families can make significant change in their lives.
Steven Hayes, the developer of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT).
Hello and welcome. I offer psychotherapy for adults, couples, families, and teens dealing with relationship difficulties, depression and anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality issues, schizophrenia, and other mental health problems. I also help family members understand their loved one's difficulties and help couples and families communicate more effectively. I believe that change occurs within the context of a positive therapeutic relationship and my focus is on creating a caring, compassionate, and sensitive space where individuals, couples, and families can make significant change in their lives.
(858) 943-4693 View (858) 943-4693
Photo of Serena Enke - Good Hope Psychological Services, PhD, Psychologist
Good Hope Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murrieta, CA 92563
As such, I draw from a number of well-researched techniques such as, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Interpersonal Therapy.
I am a generalist who works with adult clients on a variety of different issues including depression, insomnia, anxiety and panic, PTSD, anger, relationships, parenting, and many other concerns. I also conduct bariatric and spinal cord stimulator pre-surgical evaluations.
As such, I draw from a number of well-researched techniques such as, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Interpersonal Therapy.
I am a generalist who works with adult clients on a variety of different issues including depression, insomnia, anxiety and panic, PTSD, anger, relationships, parenting, and many other concerns. I also conduct bariatric and spinal cord stimulator pre-surgical evaluations.
(951) 934-0281 View (951) 934-0281
Photo of Kim Krummel, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Kim Krummel
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
I meet clients where they are, providing integrative psychotherapy to best meet each individual’s needs. My approach is collaborative, attachment- and strengths-based, trauma-informed, and psychodynamic. I treat a variety of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, addiction, relationship/family issues, stress, and low self-esteem. My training in internal family systems, trauma-focused CBT, motivational interviewing, ACT ( acceptance and commitment therapy), and mindfulness are integrated into my work.
I meet clients where they are, providing integrative psychotherapy to best meet each individual’s needs. My approach is collaborative, attachment- and strengths-based, trauma-informed, and psychodynamic. I treat a variety of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, addiction, relationship/family issues, stress, and low self-esteem. My training in internal family systems, trauma-focused CBT, motivational interviewing, ACT ( acceptance and commitment therapy), and mindfulness are integrated into my work.
(415) 612-3939 View (415) 612-3939
Photo of Karen Clay Beck - Karen Clay Beck: Teens, Mid-Life, Couples, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Karen Clay Beck: Teens, Mid-Life, Couples
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405  (Online Only)
I tailor my treatment approach to harmonize well with my clients' specific needs, motivation, and treatment goals using ACT, DBT, mindfulness skills.
My dedication to my clients comes from a well deep with purpose. I enjoy working with clients in the age range of 30-55 who are experiencing burnout and may feel emotionally and physically exhausted due to prolonged stress, demanding responsibilities, or dissatisfaction in various aspects of their lives. Going through a midlife crisis due to life transitions such as divorce, grief and loss or trauma, you might be questioning life choices, and seeking meaning or change in your personal or professional spheres. These situations can benefit from self-reflection, professional support and guidance.
I tailor my treatment approach to harmonize well with my clients' specific needs, motivation, and treatment goals using ACT, DBT, mindfulness skills.
My dedication to my clients comes from a well deep with purpose. I enjoy working with clients in the age range of 30-55 who are experiencing burnout and may feel emotionally and physically exhausted due to prolonged stress, demanding responsibilities, or dissatisfaction in various aspects of their lives. Going through a midlife crisis due to life transitions such as divorce, grief and loss or trauma, you might be questioning life choices, and seeking meaning or change in your personal or professional spheres. These situations can benefit from self-reflection, professional support and guidance.
(310) 807-1866 View (310) 807-1866
Photo of Tamara Sharifov, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tamara Sharifov
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92103
The therapeutic relationship is vital when embarking on this journey of opening and courageously facing some of our deepest pains. My process involves assisting you in locating your wisdom, and helping generate a life full of meaning and acceptance - while honoring your unique story. It also is important to respect and integrate the intersectionality of your identity during this process. I know how important feeling recognized, seen, and heard can be. Whether needing to process trauma, life-transitions, anxiety or depression, how to develop better boundaries, concerns regarding sexuality and gender, relationship concerns, and more.
The therapeutic relationship is vital when embarking on this journey of opening and courageously facing some of our deepest pains. My process involves assisting you in locating your wisdom, and helping generate a life full of meaning and acceptance - while honoring your unique story. It also is important to respect and integrate the intersectionality of your identity during this process. I know how important feeling recognized, seen, and heard can be. Whether needing to process trauma, life-transitions, anxiety or depression, how to develop better boundaries, concerns regarding sexuality and gender, relationship concerns, and more.
(760) 309-6306 View (760) 309-6306
Photo of Jamillah Pargo, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jamillah Pargo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Marcos, CA 92078
It is imperative for clinicians to encourage self- acceptance, support patient's rights to self-determination, assist with embracing change, and recognizing each patient's personal strengths to aid in recovery.
Are you experiencing Hopelessness, Sadness, Worthlessness, Panic Attacks, Racing Thoughts, or Fear? Do you lay awake at night WORRYING about EVERYTHING? Are your worries or fears a constant cycle? Do you avoid interaction with loved ones, or maybe you don't want to be a burden to family or friends, so you begin isolating from everyone? Do you ever say, “I can’t take this anymore?” Do you feel alone in your problems? You are not alone, whether you're dealing with Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Issues, Health Crisis, Midlife Crisis, or just unsure how to move forward in life, assisting adults redefine life is my passion & purpose.
It is imperative for clinicians to encourage self- acceptance, support patient's rights to self-determination, assist with embracing change, and recognizing each patient's personal strengths to aid in recovery.
Are you experiencing Hopelessness, Sadness, Worthlessness, Panic Attacks, Racing Thoughts, or Fear? Do you lay awake at night WORRYING about EVERYTHING? Are your worries or fears a constant cycle? Do you avoid interaction with loved ones, or maybe you don't want to be a burden to family or friends, so you begin isolating from everyone? Do you ever say, “I can’t take this anymore?” Do you feel alone in your problems? You are not alone, whether you're dealing with Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Issues, Health Crisis, Midlife Crisis, or just unsure how to move forward in life, assisting adults redefine life is my passion & purpose.
(619) 736-2408 View (619) 736-2408
Photo of Danielle Kayne-O’Gilvie, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Danielle Kayne-O’Gilvie
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
My approach is built upon warmth and collaboration, aiming to address challenges within a safe environment. Together, we will work to understand into your difficulties, nurturing self-compassion and embracing acceptance, while seeking avenues toward constructive change and breaking unhelpful patterns. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, life transitions, emotional struggles, staying grounded in the present, relationship stressors, or managing distress, our sessions provide a space to explore past experiences while acquiring coping mechanisms for present stressors and building towards a fulfilling future.
My approach is built upon warmth and collaboration, aiming to address challenges within a safe environment. Together, we will work to understand into your difficulties, nurturing self-compassion and embracing acceptance, while seeking avenues toward constructive change and breaking unhelpful patterns. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, life transitions, emotional struggles, staying grounded in the present, relationship stressors, or managing distress, our sessions provide a space to explore past experiences while acquiring coping mechanisms for present stressors and building towards a fulfilling future.
(424) 321-8755 View (424) 321-8755
Photo of Kaelyn Baker, MA, LPCC, NCC
Kaelyn Baker
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92103
I integrate humanistic therapy, person-centered therapy, and relational therapy with evidence-based practices such as CBT, DBT, and ACT.
Do you often worry about what others think of you? Do you find yourself trying to please everyone around you? Are you caught in the pressure of doing everything perfectly, yet still feeling like you’re not good enough? I specialize in supporting adolescents and young adults facing trauma, anxiety, and depression. My areas of focus include people-pleasing, perfectionism, guilt, shame, self-harm, disordered eating, and relational challenges. I’m especially passionate about helping my clients build self-esteem, confidence, and self-compassion.
I integrate humanistic therapy, person-centered therapy, and relational therapy with evidence-based practices such as CBT, DBT, and ACT.
Do you often worry about what others think of you? Do you find yourself trying to please everyone around you? Are you caught in the pressure of doing everything perfectly, yet still feeling like you’re not good enough? I specialize in supporting adolescents and young adults facing trauma, anxiety, and depression. My areas of focus include people-pleasing, perfectionism, guilt, shame, self-harm, disordered eating, and relational challenges. I’m especially passionate about helping my clients build self-esteem, confidence, and self-compassion.
(760) 642-6431 View (760) 642-6431
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Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapists

How does acceptance and commitment therapy work?

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy encourages a person to listen to their self-talk. A person’s inner dialog can be indicative of how they treat themselves. ACT also encourages self-compassion; this can lead to a better understanding of negative thought patterns and emotional states. This understanding can then lead the individual to needed behavior change.

What are the goals of acceptance and commitment therapy?

The goal of acceptance and commitment is to expand a person’s psychological flexibility, a trait that encourages an individual to live in the present moment and to accept all their thoughts, feelings, and emotions, even ones that are difficult such as sadness and anxiety. In ACT, this acceptance is congruent with the individual’s values and beliefs.

Does acceptance and commitment therapy work for depression?

Acceptance and commitment therapy is effective for depression because it allows the individual to view their discomfort and suffering differently. Depressive feelings about relationship heartaches, for example, are a part of life. A despondent person learns to let go of their struggles and instead view their painful thoughts and feelings with compassion. This will lead the individual toward positive change.

How long are people typically in acceptance and commitment therapy?

A typical acceptance and commitment therapy session is 50 minutes long with one session per week. Treatment for common problems such as anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties can last between eight weeks to four months. However, more severe cases may require more than one session a week and/or a longer time frame for treatment.